Geopolitics and Energy Security in the Wider Black Sea Region

Abstract

This article explores the links between geopolitics and energy security in the Black Sea region. Geopolitical factors are important given the location of energy resources and the difficulties faced in transporting this energy to European markets. These issues impact on the foreign policies of interested states. The position of Russia as a significant energy producer, key transit state and major strategic player is considered. The potential and actual roles of the other Black Sea littoral states as energy transit states are examined, and the increasing interests of the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in the region are discussed.