The Gas Farce
Russia, Ukraine, and European Policy
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
The gas conflict between Russia and Ukraine in January 2009 left almost 20 countries in Europe without natural gas. Now Russia and Ukraine are considered problems when it comes to European energy security. Brussels and the national governments of the EU member states have to consider what kind of consequences are to be drawn from this crisis. Russia is, and will remain, Europe’s most important gas supplier. But relations between Europe and Russia are troubled and have to be corrected. An important precondition is for the European Union to show unity. Above all, however, it is necessary to understand the complex background, causes, and motives behind the gas conflict.
(Osteuropa 1/2009, pp. 19–36)