The Schengen Zone, a passport-free travel area encompassing 26 European countries, has been a key player in shaping international energy deals involving Russia. As one of the world's largest energy producers, Russia has long been a major supplier of oil and gas to countries within the Schengen Zone.
The Schengen Zone is a term that refers to the area covered by the Schengen Agreement, an agreement among European countries that allows for border-free travel within the zone. This agreement has had a significant impact on travel within Europe, making it easier and more convenient for people to move between countries without having to show their passports at every border crossing.