Strategic analysis of the European natural gas crisis

The gas crisis that occurred between members of European Union (EU), Ukraine, and Russia in 2006 is strategically investigated using the Graph Model for Conflict Resolution (GMCR). The interdependency and geopolitics of the natural gas supply and demand within Europe is a sophisticated subject. Strategic insights are derived from the review and analysis of the conflict history. The European gas dependency is thoroughly examined, and major events are discussed. The gas crises keep repeating with similar characteristics although an agreement and resolution is achieved every time. The gas supplies were cut several times during the 1990s, significant suspensions occurred in 2006, 2009, and most recently in 2014. The objective is to model and analyze the common characteristics and understand the full picture to form a foundation to gain strategic insights.