Publication

This commentary addresses geopolitical implications of Gazprom's efforts to build the South Stream gas pipeline. Despite some unresolved problems, Gazprom's determination in its efforts to build the pipeline proves that Russia is ready to take a high economic risk to maintain its dominant position on the European gas supply market. The author further argues that the completion of the project will restrict the possibilities of alternative infrastructural projects being implemented (above all, the EU’s Southern Corridor). In addition, Russia will use the construction of new pipelines as an instrument of political pressure on the present transit countries (especially Ukraine).