On the Legal Nature of the BRELL Electric Power Systems Coordination Agreement and the Objectives of Legal Support for International Cooperation in the Electric Power Industry

International integration is an essential aspect of the foreign policy of all modern nations, shaping a sustainable architecture for global interaction. Amid geopolitical transformation, the legal mechanisms of international energy integration are becoming critically important, ensuring a balance of interests and predictability in cooperation. Despite the increasing tensions with a number of countries, Russia remains committed to its strategic course towards diversification and deepening trade and investment cooperation. During the Meeting of the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects, the President of the Russian Federation emphasized that Russia would never pursue a path of self-isolation or autarky, but would instead maintain openness to international economic relations. Conversely, the national strategy will focus on fostering trade and investment partnerships with all interested states, guided by the principles of equality and mutual benefit. In this context, the objective of diversifying energy policy strategies by shifting to new, more resilient legal formats for collaboration that address contemporary challenges is of utmost importance. This paper examines the mechanisms of international cooperation between economic entities in the electric power industry, using the BRELL agreement as an example. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal implications of its termination, as well as the potential systemic risks to energy security in the region that may arise. The main scientific contribution and practical proposal of the author is the thesis on the need for the System Operator of the Unified Energy System to expand its competence in terms of international cooperation. The paper substantiates the feasibility of providing the System Operator of the Unified Energy System with additional functions for methodological supervision, peer support, and direct participation in the preparation and execution of interdepartmental agreements in the electric power industry. This initiative will formalize and substantially enhance the efficiency of Russia's international engagement in the current economic context.