The Russian Discourse on Energy Relations with the EU in the Period 2004–2014

Abstract

This article explores the energy relations of the Russian Federation with the European Union in the period 2004–2014, during which took place a number of key events that had a profound influence on contemporary energy relations between Russia and the EU, which were damaged by the crisis in Ukraine. The focus is, however, not on the technical and institutional aspects of the relationship, but rather on the discursive formations that determine the prevailing interpretation of the relationship by both parties. This article tries to identify its most salient discursive formations, which respectively center around three concepts: 1) integration, 2) liberalization, and 3) diversification. Building on a detailed thematic analysis of 546 statements and documents produced by Russian policymakers and central authorities, the article focuses on a) the common and the differing aspects of the three concepts, and b) their major themes.

Keywords

• Russian Federation
• thematic analysis
• energy
• critical constructivism
• European Union