EU Dependence on Russian Energy Could Jeopardize Transatlantic Relations
Europe has become heavily reliant on Russia to meet its energy needs. This trend undermines Europe’s self-confidence and jeopardizes its geopolitical position as well as that of the United States, says Ariel Cohen from the Heritage Foundation.
Russia’s agenda seeks to perpetuate dependence by consolidating Gazprom’s position at home and abroad. As foreign companies such as Shell and BP fail to retain projects in Eurasia, envisioned pipelines by-passing Russia have given way to new arrangements including it. The Nordstream pipeline between Russia and Germany risks exacerbating this pattern. While the United States is concerned about prospective deals between European countries and Iran, it is essential that Europe and America devise a strategy to loosen Moscow’s grip.
Heritage Foundation Backgrounder #2083 November 5, 2007
