HOSTAGES OF RUSSIAN GAS

From The Economist

What is the major problem dealing with Russia? The answer is rather simple  – the gas. 

According to this publication, even by the best scenario, reducing European dependency on Russian gas will take at least a decade. And even then, the serious investments and a lot of political will must be invested.  Until then the situation appears to be rather dim. 

Without gas supply from Russia, Europe will face serious shortfalls which can’t be fully compensated by other suppliers. like US. According to this publication, Europe has no hope for American gas either. 
 

The Economist already admits that “If Russia were to push farther into Ukraine, or to try its chances in Moldova, Georgia or the Baltic states, and Europe to take strong action in response, it could shut down exports completely, thus doing huge damage to the EU.” 

So yes, you do not need to look at Arab countries for the battle over energy. If Russia continues playing with the gas tap in one hand and conducting its armed forces over its current borders by other, Europe might face the serious dilemma – to make a political or an economical decision. 

This citation from The Economist has also another angle to look at, at least for me. Economist mentions Moldova, Georgia and the Baltic states as possible targets for Russia.  

 But! 

While Moldova and Georgia (like Ukraine) are not EU member states, the Baltic countries are so protecting them is not optional as far as I know! Even more – the Baltic States are NATO members while Georgia and Moldova are not. 

So if we take out the possibility that Russia goes totally suicidal by attempting to take over one of the NATO and EU members, considering that Russia might try chances in the Baltic is rather strange. Or... 

Does Economist knows something special on this matter that I do not know?