Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation and Parliament in his annual speech, saying that alternative ways should be found for the Russian oil within this year, referring to the Istanbul and Canakkale straits.

Putin said; in the Southern direction, new pipelines should be created,  bypassing Turkey. “Drujba” (Friendship) oil pipeline which extended to Romania-Bulgaria border from Russia and  was built in the Soviet term should joined the “Adrian” pipeline. In this way Russian oil can be reached to Adriatic Sea.”