Introduction: What is the background to the issues? Russia’s role as a key oil and gas exporter and Europe’s, China’s and Japan’s thirst for energy.
Russia and Europe
• What were geopolitical causes of tension between Russia and Ukraine?
• What happened during the crisis (2006, 2009 and 2007 in Belarus)
• Why is it predicted that it will never become a ‘full blown’ crisis?
• What is Europe doing to try and not be so reliant on Russia?
Russia, China and Japan (ESPO oil pipeline)
• Why are China and Japan so concerned about the ESPO oil pipeline? Why do they need this pipeline to succeed?
• Why did Russia agree to continue it to the Pacific Coast? What has Russia done to keep China on side? Why did they think this was important to do?
Conclusion: is Russia producing a more energy insecure world?
