Russian, EU Leaders Discuss Energy and Security

Energy and security dominated the Russia-EU Summit in Western Siberia, where Kremlin leader Dmitri Medvedev called for creation of all-European institutions to replace long-standing structures, including NATO.

In an apparent attempt to increase Russian influence in Europe at the expense of the United States, President Medvedev said security responsibilities should not be passed onto neighbors. He says all European security issues, including missile defense and the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty should be decided collectively. [snip]

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso acknowledged EU dependence on Russian energy during a joint news conference at the end of the two-day summit, and praised President Medvedev for helping the European Union hold talks with Iran...

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