The first question—about diversifying Russia’s economy, reducing its heavy dependence on commodities—was directed to President Putin. In passing, however, the questioner happened to mention shale gas. At that, the Russian president erupted. He launched a broadside, warning against possible shale gas development in Eastern Europe, denouncing shale gas as a grave danger, an environmental threat, a despoiler of land and water. The questioner sank back into his seat.
