Despite its frustration with Russia’s actions, the US seems reluctant to risk further deterioration of its relations with the ex-Soviet state. Washington finds Moscow’s cooperation to be vital in regional security issues such as Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the dismantling of North Korea’s nuclear program. Nevertheless, Russia’s assertiveness within the region has left leaders in Washington worried over the control of the US-back oil pipeline that crosses through Georgia. This pipeline has allowed the West to reduce its reliance on oil from the Middle East. Its fate will affect oil prices around the world, and Russian control poses a great security threat to the United States and Europe. Thus far throughout the conflict, oil prices have been steadily declining due to decreased demand, but it remains to be seen what effect Russian control of the breakaway regions will have on oil prices and the US economy.