Analysis & Opinions - Bloomberg Opinion

Russia’s Oil Weapon May Be More Potent Than Gas Blackmail

| Jan. 28, 2022

Russian military action in Ukraine could trigger an energy crisis even more serious than the one already hitting Europe. As has been pointed out, should the West hit Russia with severe new sanctions, President Vladimir Putin could cut off natural gas exports, leaving the continent shivering through midwinter. Yet there is another potential weapon of Russia’s that’s been less discussed and might be very effective: An ability to disrupt global oil markets, which would directly hit U.S. consumers.

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For more information on this publication: Belfer Communications Office
For Academic Citation: O'Sullivan, Meghan.“Russia’s Oil Weapon May Be More Potent Than Gas Blackmail.” Bloomberg Opinion, January 28, 2022.

The Author

Meghan O'Sullivan

Meghan L. O'Sullivan

  • Jeane Kirkpatrick Professor of the Practice of International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School
  • Member of the Board, Belfer Center
  • Faculty Affiliate, Middle East Initiative
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