The Russian economy (catch all)

[Firn]

The 'energy weapon' is rather unwieldy as far as I can see. We discussed the postive changes which can be achieved on the own playing field. Driving down demand by increased energy efficieny, broader energy mix with more renewables and possibly some nuclear, LNG portals, more integrated piplines and grids, more strategic storage and 'battery' capacity. So the Western world can do a great deal with sound investments at home.

If you hear tough talk from guys like Maduro you should laugh at him or weep for the common folk. Oil at ~$ 75 per barrel for some years will be terrible hit in an already aweful economy...

The Russian budget is calculated using $ 95 as a baseline prediction IIRC. The Norwegians do so with $ 65.