Russia 's Gazprom one of world 's most powerful energy companies . Formed in 1989 to replace the Soviet Ministry of the Gas Industry , Gazprom is closely tied to the Russian government , which owns a controlling 50 percent stake in the company . Gazprom controls 20 % of world 's natural gas reserves . Russian government owns controlling stake ; Company lost $ 61B last year . Russia has used Gazprom to exert control over former Soviet states .
Russia 's Gazprom one of world 's most powerful energy companies . Gazprom controls 20 % of world 's natural gas reserves . Russian government owns controlling stake ; Company lost $ 61B last year . Russia has used Gazprom to exert control over former Soviet states .