In the complex world of energy politics, the straightforward narratives often fall short of capturing the true dynamics at play, particularly regarding the impact of Western sanctions on Russia’s economy.

However, an in-depth conversation with oil industry experts reveals a far more nuanced reality.

For over three decades, the European Union has heavily relied on Russian oil and gas, a relationship intricately woven through extensive infrastructure that cannot be easily dismantled. Let’s consider some of the misconceptions surrounding Russia’s economic resilience and the wider implications of its diversified energy sector—pointing towards a future where geopolitical tensions and economic maneuvers continue to shape the global energy landscape.

Few policymakers in the West refuse to accept that the Russian economy is not suffering “so badly” from the Dutch Disease, especially when buttressed with so-called biting sanctions.  Much to the dismay of the West, in retrospect it is obvious now that Russia had diversified its economic base long ago and without much fanfare.

And that was long before the SMO in Ukraine became breaking news. Much of the reason for this was the frequent Western trumpeting of how they would bring Russia to its knees through sanctions if it interfered in Ukraine’s genocide  against its own Russian ethnic citizens in the east of the country after 2014.

It is necessary to keep in mind that all governments have the habit of lying about economic statistics, as all governments do while at war. It is wishful thinking to believe that the SMO in Ukraine will turn out to be a major setback to Russian political and economic goals and economic growth targets.

What people do not realize about the Oil Industry;

For over 30 years, the EU has been buying ever greater amounts of Oil & Gas from Russia. This was driven heavily by the previous Chancellor, Angela Merkel. In fact, it is........

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