The Power of the Pipeline Russia's Energy Policy and the EU

Russia uses its energy resources for geopolitical ends. Gazprom is an independent company pro forma, but de facto serves the Kremlin. This is seen in the fact that gas prices for neighbouring countries are determined by political proximity to the Kremlin as well as in the crisis between Russia and Ukraine. Dependence on gas from Russia is a particularly sensitive aspect of Europe's energy security, as transport is bound to the existing grind. The European Union would be well advised to look for alternatives in its energy policies.