Russian Energy Policy And Military Power

The book examines the interplay between energy policy and security policy under Vladimir Putin, and argues that Russia's desire to strengthen its role of 'energy security' provider is undermined by its inability to secure growth in production of oil and gas. Further, the pressing demand to channel more resources into the military-industrial complex clashes with the growing need to invest in the energy complex, and the priority granted to strategic forces deprives the conventional forces of strike power and strategic mobility. In conclusion, the author anticipates how these contradictions could be resolved, and suggests three short scenarios for Russia's continuing transition in the next decade.

This book examines the interplay between energy policy and security policy under Vladimir Putin, and his drive to re-establish Russia's 'greatness'. Assessing the internal contradictions of this policy, the book argues that Russia's desire to strengthen its role of 'energy security' provider is undermined by its inability to secure growth in production of oil and gas. Further, the pressing demand to channel more resources into the military-industrial complex clashes with the growing need to invest in the energy complex, and the priority granted to strategic forces deprives the conventional forces of strike power and strategic mobility. In conclusion, the author anticipates how these contradictions could be resolved, and suggests three short scenarios for Russia's continuing transition in the next decade. This book will be of interest to students of Russian politics, European politics and international security. Review: '...a very timely, informative book, offering essential analysis for scholars and policymakers for whom energy-security concerns in relation to Russia 's policies will remain high on the agenda for years to come.'Survival Baev has written a well-organized book that explores the related themes of military power, energy boom, and the pursuit of great power in Russia. He explores each of the three themes individually and demonstrates how hoped for achievements are often dashed on the rock of political realities. Importantly, he also systematically assesses the links between energy and military power, between military strentgh and the search for greatness, and between energy capabilities and restoration of the imagined civilization of the past...His comments on the priority that Russia places on events in Georgia are almost prophetic. - J.W. Peterson, Valdosta State University