Russian energy will no longer be cheap

Russia will henceforth provide former Soviet countries with energy resources at market prices. The days when Russia sold energy at a discount are over, Russian PM Vladimir Putin stated before his visit to Japan, adding in a reference to last winter’s natural gas war with Ukraine that Russia must begin to set market economy prices.

Russia’s position will not be welcomed by the many post-Soviet leaders who have conducted very active pro-Russian politics and have therefore received different discounts from Russia. It is possible that many aspects of their bilateral relations will now be reconsidered. As is known Georgia’s dependence on Russian energy resources has become minimal.