Interdependence and Diversification. A View at Current EU-Russian Energy Relations

Abstract

The thesis is aimed at exploring the implications of energy interdependence for political relations between the European Union and the Russian Federation under current circumstances determined by the crisis in Ukraine. In this context, relying on the interdependence model of international relations theory, asymmetries in sensitivity and vulnerability of the sides were established and linked to their respective diversification strategies as part of the political power play between the EU and Russia. As shown, high levels of sensitivity and vulnerability, together with the diverging interests of consumer and supplier countries, under conflict situations lead to a situation of "negative interdependence", pushing the parties further apart. In this sense, interdependence under conflict - although persisting in the short term - induces a reconsideration of the relationship.