Starting at the New Year, Russia stopped sending her gas to Europe via Ukraine. Not for the first time – similar tactics were used in 2006, and were also applied to Belarus. The facts of the case are reported widely. In each case the immediate results were real hardship in the economies and domestic conditions of the European countries most dependent on the supply from Russia, in particular those without ample stored reserves. So, when re-examining this episode – a genuine crisis – what are the significant implications? a) Was there yet another intelligence failure , and should Russia’s many customers have been more aware?b) What does the handling or mishandling tell us about Europe’s relations with Russia? c) A future pipeline cut-off could be implemented by means of “terrorist” action, after which restoring supplies would be a lengthy process. d) Finally, is Russia now, demonstrably, an unscrupulous and unreliable partner in a strategically vital sector of Europe’s economy?