THE PROBLEM OF ENERGY SECURITY IN THE RUSSIAN-CHECHEN CONFLICT

Abstract

The confl ict in Chechnya, was not only a threat to the territorial integrity of Russia but also to its energy security. Energy issues were one of the main means of pressure which Russia has used in relation to Chechnya. The ultimate goal of Russia’s actions was to transform Chechnya from an exporter of oil on one completely dependent on Russian energy sources. The article is an attempt to defi ne the importance of natural resources for Russia and Chechnya. The author concludes that the mere extraction of resources was more important for Chechnya, while insuring the security of supply and activity in the Caspian Sea made Chechnya very important for Russia.