Russia’s occupation of the Crimea and possible incorporation of Eastern Ukrainian regions has demonstrated Europe’s vulnerability to Gazprom’s energy power. Whatever the EU’s reaction, diversification of energy supply to diminish Russia’s market share is likely to be one of them. The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is one step towards the strategic goal of diminishing Gazprom’s huge presence in Europe. but in view of the proposed construction of the Russian South Stream pipeline, how can Central Europe, and especially Bulgaria, Romania, Austria and Lithuania, ensure energy diversification? What next for the Southern Corridor? Is Russia going to accept and tolerate infrastructure growth of the Caspian and other competitors south of its borders? Dr. Ariel Cohen, an Advisor to the Institute for the Analysis of Global Security, has just written an extended piece on these issues published by the Italian Institute of International Affairs.  Click here to view the entire article.