Russia has factored heavily into the global dialogue surrounding this year’s energy shortages, particularly as it relates to the country’s role as the leading supplier of natural gas to Europe.

Weather patterns, supply chain issues, production outages and the pandemic, among other things, have collided to create shortages of everything from coal and natural gas to hydropower and wind generation in various parts of the world this year. 

Europe has been hit particularly hard as it has continued transitioning to alternative energy sources and competed with other regions like Asia for natural gas and oil. The continent’s hydrocarbon production has declined sharply in recent decades. 

What role does Russia have to play, and could it come to the rescue of Europe in its time...