The need for energy independence in the conduct of international politics

The story of the Crimea, for geopolitical and economic balances going to affect , requires the West to study, in an increasingly coordinated a real energy independence, which allows , especially to Europe to be less independent from Russian sources . Without this dependency , in fact , the responses to the diplomatic Russia , following the invasion of the Crimea, could have been very different , heavier and far faster . Arouses amazement as the U.S., which are at the head of the Western alliance have not thought of before an operation of this kind, which would allow greater freedom of action . I purchased large quantities of Russian gas from the industrialized countries of the old continent is in addition to the almost total dependence of the first nations belonging to the Warsaw Pact. This situation does not facilitate appropriate responses in the event of an international crisis . If Moscow is punished , many countries remain without power sources. In reality this does not happen because of the mutual dependence , which, however , allows Moscow to act undisturbed , when you feel threatened at the international level . The way forward is greater coordination in seeking alternative suppliers , entering into contracts area and not at the country level . The countries that could be involved with trade agreements are to be found even in countries traditionally kept away from Western trade , such as Iraq and Iran. In this regard, it becomes increasingly important and strategic resolve the Iranian nuclear issue , in order to tighten Tehran, the second country in the world in natural gas reserves , new agreements , not just in energy , but who know how to open up new markets for Western products . The American Technology has made ​​the country almost totally independent thanks to shale gas , which soon will also be exported , almost breaking the Russian monopoly . If this step will materialize will be a blow to Moscow , Russia still not having developed a manufacturing industry that displace exports of energy-related commodities . However, that time does not seem to be still visible in the short term , so that Russia can still exert its influence internationally. Another aspect is that little increased renewable energy , the development of which the crisis has weighed a lot. Especially in southern Europe these technologies should be increased and purely military institutions such as NATO, should pursue the development of these technologies by funding , which should constitute investment estimates also on the military side . There is also the issue of nuclear power, the Fukushima tragedy slowed or stopped this technology and those related , such as cold fusion , turning an environmental disaster into opportunity for gain and of strategic importance for the countries producing oil and gas. If the U.S. wants to be the real leader of the West can not help but think about frank dependence on raw materials of their allies. At this time the issue is Russia, but in the future could affect other powers. A longer-term vision of the entire Western world on developments in the foreign policy related to that energy is increasingly essential to the life of a state. The increase cooperation thus becomes central in terms of prevention , that next to a possible crisis. The instruments of pressure will be less military and cheaper and this imposes a role and a broader view of security supranational organizations , such as those policies .