The expert argues that the situation presents an opportunity for Georgia to regain control of its strategic energy assets. The European Union has imposed sanctions on the Russian state-owned energy company Inter RAO. “Even if the value of these assets on the company’s books differs from their actual market value, the overall cost is ultimately not so great or burdensome for Georgia that it should entrust such vital strategic assets to others and remain dependent on someone else’s goodwill. “The Russian state-owned company effectively holds a monopoly in Georgia, as it controls electricity generation, distribution and supply. When a neighbouring and unpredictable state owns your strategic assets, it creates long-term macroeconomic risks.