I've often wondered about this entire issue. On the surface, I find my sympathies lie, suprisingly, with Russia and Gazprom. But I'm curious as to the level of confidence and trust the EU is placing in Russia in entrusting its energy policy to a nation with newly restated imperialistic aims that has frequently used the flow of gas as a tool of intimidation.

I don't begrudge the Russians the right to use their gas to their best advantage. I question the EU leadership that's going to load a revolver, hold it to their heads, and let Putin hold the trigger. As Rory said, diversity in the energy markets is the key, whether it be dealing with oil barons at Exxon-Mobil or gas-barons at Gazprom. As long as you have only one option, you have none.