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Energy Economic Resilience under sanctions in Russia: Policies & lessons for Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Parisa Sabri 1
Ehsan Rasoulinezhad 2

1 PhD Candidate, Russian Studies, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22050/pbr.2025.497284.1366
Abstract
Iran, as an oil-dependent economy, has faced strict energy sanctions from the Western bloc, prompting the country to adopt policies aimed at enhancing energy economic resilience. Given the similarities in economic structure, this paper explores the concept of energy economic resilience in Russia under sanctions. Following Russia's special military operations in Ukraine, successive Western sanctions were imposed on Russia, primarily targeting its energy sector and global exports. This study aims to identify the key components affected by these sanctions by examining Russia’s energy security within a structured framework. The findings indicate that sanctions have had a negative impact on Russia's energy security and inflicted economic damage. However, Russia has demonstrated resilience in its energy sector by implementing strategic policies, such as diversifying oil and gas export destinations and strengthening energy transportation infrastructure through investment and new projects. Despite these successes, Russia remains highly dependent on fossil fuel extraction and exports, with limited progress in increasing the share of renewable energy, which remains a major weakness.

Highlights

·      Western sanctions have significantly impacted Russia’s energy sector, reducing foreign investment and access to traditional export markets.

·      Despite maintaining oil and gas exports, Russia struggles to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and control carbon emissions.

 

·      Key lessons for Iran include diversifying export markets, boosting renewable energy, and reducing economic dependence on fossil fuels to enhance energy security under sanctions.

Keywords

Energy security
Russian Federation
Western Sanctions
Ukraine Crisis
Four As Framework
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 02 January 2025
  • Revise Date 18 February 2025
  • Accept Date 19 February 2025

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