Russia-EU relations: Opening the European energy market, an opportunity or challenge for Gazprom?

Several analysts interpret the dealings between Russia and the European Union in relation to energy in geopolitical terms. Such interpretations, grounded on a realistic view of international relations, present Gazprorn as both a means of power in the Kremlin's hands and a source of danger to the EU's independence. This very geopolitical conception of a head-on collision between the EU and Russia but partly explains the behavior of the parties to this relationship. Given its international deployment as well as its quest for profits and for the security of its outlets, Gazprom is responding to industrial and economic rationales. Desipte its now undisputed status as a player in international relations, the European Union does not yet exist as a player in the energy field. Owing to its many internal divisions, outside parties have a hard time interpreting its declarations. The European Commission bears a model of "energy integration" that Russia, energy firms and some member states have trouble accepting.