The presence of Russian troops along the border with Ukraine increases the risk of worsening tensions between the two countries and new Western sanctions against Russia, Moody’s said in a review, APA-Economics reports.

This could affect the CIS countries through various channels due to economic, financial and energy ties with Russia, as well as their weak liquidity and external positions.

“However, pressure in the context of the ratings is possible only if tough sanctions lead to a significant slowdown in the Russian economy or lead to a serious disruption of energy supplies,” the agency added. Both are unlikely even in the event of an escalation of tension, they believe there.

The agency added that the most exposed to these risks are Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Moldova and Armenia.

Source: Azeri-Press News Agency