The real reason Ukraine is important.

The US wants to export our natural gas to them. Which as I understand it is currently illegal since the energy crisis of the 70's to export any unrefined fossil fuels. Of course this would have the effect of dramatic increases in prices for all this fracking that's currently being burnt off in flares because they don't even have the pipelines to service the oil let alone the cheaper gas. But this could alter the equation. Below is the letter from Senator Toomey: March 21, 2014 Dear Mr. Clay, Thank you for contacting me about the political situation in Ukraine. I appreciate hearing from you. Like you, I am very concerned about the situation in Ukraine and value your input. I believe that the U.S. should strongly oppose Russian efforts to undermine the freedom and sovereignty of Ukraine. I am strongly in favor of freezing assets of senior Russian officials and imposing sanctions against this country. Further, as we consider a response to Russia's actions, we should be mindful that this nation derives much of its wealth from gas exports to nations, such as Ukraine, that have no other options than importing energy from Russia. As such, to the extent that we can aggressively advance the development and export of our gas resources around the world, we can undermine Russia's economic and geopolitical clout, not to mention boost economic growth and job creation here at home. Accordingly, I support easing restrictions on exporting natural gas, both as a means of countering an expansionist Russia in Eastern Europe and as sound domestic economic policy, independent of the situation in Ukraine. While we may not always agree on this issue, I value your input and I will be certain to keep your views in mind. Thank you again for your correspondence. Sincerely, Signature Pat Toomey U.S. Senator, Pennsylvania