Europe’s Submission to Putin Hangs on Last Chance for Blackmail
The relationship between Europe and Russia has been a complex one, marked by periods of cooperation and conflict. In recent years, tensions have risen as Russia has become more assertive in its foreign policy, particularly in its actions towards Ukraine. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine have strained relations between Russia and the West, including Europe.
One of the key factors in this relationship is energy. Europe is heavily dependent on Russian gas, with around 40% of its gas imports coming from Russia. This dependence has given Russia significant leverage over Europe, as it can use the threat of cutting off gas supplies as a means of exerting pressure.
This leverage has been used before. In 2009, Russia cut off gas supplies to Ukraine, which also affected several European countries that relied on gas transit through Ukraine. The incident highlighted Europe’s vulnerability to Russian energy blackmail and led to efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on Russian gas.
However, despite these efforts, Europe remains heavily reliant on Russian gas. This dependence has been a source of concern for many European leaders, who fear that Russia could use it as a means of exerting political influence.
The situation has been further complicated by the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which is currently under construction. The pipeline will allow Russia to bypass Ukraine and export gas directly to Germany, increasing its leverage over Europe even further.
The project has been controversial, with many European countries opposing it on the grounds that it will increase Europe’s dependence on Russian gas and undermine Ukraine’s position as a transit country. However, Germany has been a strong supporter of the project, arguing that it will increase energy security and reduce costs.
The controversy surrounding Nord Stream 2 has put Europe in a difficult position. On the one hand, it wants to reduce its dependence on Russian gas and avoid being blackmailed by Russia. On the other hand, it does not want to antagonize Russia and risk a further deterioration in relations.
This dilemma has given Russia a powerful tool for exerting pressure on Europe. If Europe opposes Nord Stream 2 too strongly, Russia could threaten to cut off gas supplies or use the pipeline as a means of exerting political influence. If Europe supports the pipeline, it risks further dependence on Russian gas and undermining its own energy security.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Europe is divided on the issue. Some countries, such as Poland and the Baltic states, are strongly opposed to Nord Stream 2 and have called for it to be cancelled. Others, such as Germany and Austria, are more supportive of the project.
The outcome of this dilemma will have significant implications for Europe’s relationship with Russia. If Europe submits to Russian pressure and allows Nord Stream 2 to go ahead, it will be seen as a victory for Russia and a sign of Europe’s weakness. If Europe opposes the pipeline too strongly and risks a confrontation with Russia, it could lead to a further deterioration in relations and increased tensions.
In the end, Europe’s submission to Putin hangs on its ability to resist Russian blackmail and assert its own interests. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline represents a last chance for Russia to exert pressure on Europe and increase its leverage over the continent. Whether Europe succumbs to this pressure or stands firm will determine the future of its relationship with Russia and its own energy security.
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