Number: RL33212 Title: Russian Oil and Gas Challenges Authors: Robert Pirog, Resources, Science, and Industry Division Abstract: The Russian Federation is a major player in world energy markets. It has more proven natural gas reserves than any other country and is among the top ten countries in proven oil reserves. It is the world's largest exporter of natural gas, the second largest oil producer and exporter, and the third largest energy consumer. Given that the United States also is a major energy producer and user, Russian energy trends and policies affect U.S. energy markets and U.S. welfare in general. Pages: 18 Date: June 20, 2007