Interdependence and Power in EU-Russian Gas Relations

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to investigate gas interdependence for political relations between the European Union and the Russian Federation. Despite of the fact that relations in the gas sphere still have particular importance for both parties, after the Ukrainian crisis, sanctions and counter-sanctions applied, they have reached the lowest point of cooperation since the end of the Cold War. This thesis is based on the interdependence model of international relations theory, asymmetries in sensitivity and vulnerability of the EU and Russia were connected to their strategies as part of the political power play. Therefore, conflict situation, high level of sensitivity and vulnerability, and interest in finding alternatives of both parties lead to the situation of 'negative interdependence'. In this context, this kind of interdependence where partners would rather avoid relations logically pushes the EU and Russia apart and stimulates reconsideration of their relationship in gas sphere.

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