Energy Security of the West in the Conditions of Russian Aggression Against Ukraine

Abstract

The relevance of the study is conditioned by the fact that the fuel and energy sector of the state is one of the key ones for ensuring a comfortable life of the population. In recent years, the process of energy development has been negatively affected by climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, but now the most important problem is the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Political events have only proved that Europe is suffering significant losses in the energy sector and is quite dependent on Russia's fuel and energy resources. That is why the issue of ensuring fuel and energy security and creating a sufficient level of reserves is the most relevant. In this regard, the purpose of this study is to analyse the issue of energy security of Western countries in the context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The leading methods of investigating this problem are logical analysis, periodisation, induction, deduction, comparison and systematisation of approaches, which will help determine the consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the current state of energy security development in Europe. The paper describes the concept of security and its features in the energy sector; analyses the studies by historians, economists, sociologists, political scientists, and researchers who deal with the problem of energy security of the West in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine; describes the danger of further use of Russian gas; suggests various methods and ways to save energy and help reduce dependence on Russian gas supplies; diagnoses risks and threats in the fuel and energy sector of Ukraine and Western Europe; disclosed main statistical data and facts of dependence of European countries on fuel and energy resources from Russia. The materials of the study are of practical and theoretical value for political scientists, economists, politicians, and diplomats, which would help them create conditions for ensuring the country's energy security. In addition, the information may be relevant for researchers and scientists who are concerned about the economic damage to the whole world as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine