Date of Graduation

Spring 2010

Degree

Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies

Department

Defense and Strategic Studies

Committee Chair

Keith Payne

Abstract

This thesis examines the Russian Federation's use of energy warfare. I analyze Russian strategic culture and national security issues to depict the Russian Federation's modus vivendi and the government's modus operandi. I explore Russian energy company Gazprom's relationship with the Russian government and look at the natural resources Russia has at its disposal. The case studies in this thesis represent recent energy disruptions in Germany, Georgia, and Ukraine. The pipelines which are currently, or will soon be, under construction are also addressed in this thesis. The potential implications for the European Union's reliance on Russian energy and what actions can be taken to prevent Russian dominance on the European market are explored in the final chapters. I conclude, Russia has and will continue to utilize energy warfare against other nations. This strategic tactic is unlikely to change as long as their energy resources remain in high demand.

Keywords

Russian Federation, Ukraine, Germany, Georgia, Gazprom, energy disruptions, Nord Stream pipeline, South Stream pipeline, Nabucco pipeline, European Union, NATO

Subject Categories

Defense and Security Studies

Copyright

© Elizabeth Ann Finn

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