«Energy wars» and geopolitics of the XX and XXI centuries

Subject/topic. The subject of the research is the analysis of prices on the oil market due to the conduct of «energy wars» as a potential element of the geopolitics of states that are the main players in the oil market. Goals/tasks. Using numerous statistical sources, the opinions of oil market experts, and the work of scientists in the field of ensuring economic security and stable economic development of our country, the causes of crisis phenomena in the oil market were analyzed and the role of the main participants-states in the conduct of «energy wars» was revealed. Methodology. The methodological basis of the article consists of modern achievements of the theory of knowledge. During the research, event and statistical analysis, system analysis methodology, as well as expert and structural analysis were applied. Results. The article analyzes the economic crises from the end of the 20th century to the present, their relationship with the geopolitics of the oil market, reveals the main reasons for conducting «energy wars», the goals and objectives of individual states. Based on expert analysis, available statistical and scientific publications in the field of pricing in the oil market, the author's views and recommendations for conducting the policy of our state on pricing in the oil market are given. Conclusions/significance. The study revealed significant differences between the causes of the sharp drop in prices on the oil market in 2008, 2014 and 2020 and the role of OPEC, OPEC+, and the main oil market participants. The article substantiates the need for a consolidated decision by all countries that produce oil in large volumes, for a gradual exit from the current situation as a result of the «energy war». Application. The results of the research can be applied in making managerial decisions by officials of state authorities on the implementation of state policy in the oil market.