Russia: Energy Security
Prospects
Russia is expected to have its energy security objectives partially fulfilled at the Deauville Summit. Energy security remains a highly politicized topic in the G8. The new EU internal market legislation poses a concern for Russia’s energy monopolistic market power and Russia will look to pursue regional and bilateral relations in order to protect its monopolist position. Concerns about the transparency of the Russian energy sector are still of primary importance in solving this problem. However, Russia is expected to fulfill its objectives on energy efficiency objectives. In regards to nuclear safety regulations, Russia is likely to garner support and allegiance from its counterparts. Germany has been a strong advocate of revisiting the nuclear energy issues. In addition, Merkel’s pledge to speed the exit from atomic power is beneficial in pushing gas prices higher.