Russia as in Energy Superpower: History of the Concept
In preparation for its first summit of G-8 hosted by Russian Federation in St. Petersburg in July 2006, its leaders have proposed discussion on “energy security" and prospective leadership of Russian Federation in this sphere globally, especially in Eurasia. There were two strategic aims for Russia's activities: to improve image of the country at the international arena, as well as to reserve a seat of a leading power in global discussion on search for a proper balance of interests between those countries, which are major exporters of energy and countries, which are net importers of energy resources, first of all - crude oil and natural gas. The idea followed by a concept of “energy superpower", which Russia would like to be seen by other G-8 members. The reaction of Western leaders to Russia's initiative has been sharp and negative. Since then Russian leaders formally have never return to the concept. At the same time, a number of programming documents in security spheres, which has been adopted by the President of Russian Federation since 2006, is firmly based on recognition of energy component of economic power of Russia. Logic of energy strategy of Russian Federation is also includes need to control “commanding heights" in energy sector as a guarantee for economic independence and effective addition to nuclear status of Russia.