Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline as a challenge for the energy security of the European Union

The growing energy needs have given European Union a strong interest in developing ties with energy-producing states to build necessary pipeline infrastructure. Russia is a key player in European energy market. The energy security policy of Russia is an element of its wider strategy towards European states. Thereby the Russian Federation articulated clear strategy regarding energy relations with its partners: improving cooperation with some EU member states. Russian gas potential is very important in this context. Nord Stream 2 is an element of the gas pipeline competition in Europe and bipolar energy policy in EU