№090. Security Implications of Russian Energy Policies
№090. Security Implications of Russian Energy Policies

Author(s): Keith C. Smith
Subject(s): Energy and Environmental Studies, Economic policy, International relations/trade
Published by: CEPS Centre for European Policy Studies
Keywords: Russian Energy Policies; Ukraine; gas; gazprom;
Summary/Abstract: Russia’s tough stance towards Ukraine on natural gas prices was viewed by many in Europe and the United States as raising new issues concerning Russia’s foreign economic policies and growing European and US dependency on energy imports. For many new EU member states and for countries such as Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova, however, this is an old problem. Central European attempts to flag the issue in Western capitals have until now been brushed aside. The rapid approval by the EU Commission of the Russian-German undersea gas pipeline project was a mistake. The concerns of the Central Europeans should have been examined in more detail. Western governments would also be wise to analyse more closely the political and security implications of Russia’s energy policies.

• Details
• Contents