RELAÇÃO ENERGÉTICA RUSSIA-UNIÃO EUROPEIA* The Energy Relations Between EU and Russia

Abstract

The geopolitical interpretation is very central in the bulk of the scientiÞ c literature related to the energy relations between EU and Russia. In this approach, mainly based on a realist vision of the international relations, Gazprom is most of the time presented as an instrument of power in the hands of Kremlin and eventually as a mean to jeopardize a more and more energetically dependant Europe (principally the European Union). In this paper, we show that the geopolitical approach is correct. However, we assume that it is not sufÞ cient at all when it comes to the behaviour of various actors of the energetic domain. The purchase of assets by Gazprom in foreign countries is not pure politics. It is also an economic necessity and a way to make proÞ ts and to make its exports more secure. Besides, although it is now recognized as an actor in international relations, EU does not exist as a coherent ands visible actor in the energy domain. It is deeply divided in several groups of actors whose traditions, policies and behaviours are diverging.