Russia's state-run natural gas monopoly, Gazprom, has warned again of a cut-off of supplies to Belarus, unless the country signs a new price agreement.

Russian gas monopoly Gazprom has said Belarus could be risking its gas supplies in January if it refuses to agree to conditions on a price increase.

Talks between Belarus and Russia's state-owned energy provider Gazprom ended Tuesday without agreement, raising the possibility of a natural gas cut-off next week if Belarus does not agree to a sharp price hike.

Belarus has barred a German diplomat from entering the country.

Canada is imposing trade sanctions on Belarus in a bid to pressure the country's rulers to respect human rights and democracy.

Opposition leader Alyaksandr Milinkevich has said he is sure Belarus would become democratic in two years.

The European Union today repeated its long-standing call for Belarus to join the EU Neighborhood Policy.