The Barefoot Shoemaker

One of the world’s largest oil and gas exporters seems to have an energy problem.

RAO Unified Energy Systems, Russia’s electricity monopoly, says it will not be able to meet demand in dozens of Russian regions and cities – including St. Petersburg and Moscow -- this winter and for years to come. 

“The country is entering a very difficult and dramatic energy shortage period,” said UES Chief Executive Anatoly Chubais.