Strait Of Hormuz: Putin Presents Russian Routes As Alternative

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated today that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is directly disrupting global energy markets and oil and gas transportation through the Strait of Hormuz, urging a shift toward more secure and diversified logistics solutions.

Speaking via video link from Moscow, Putin addressed participants of the inaugural 1st International Transport and Logistics Forum taking place in St. Petersburg (at the Expoforum Exhibition Center) from April 1–3, 2026.

“The events in Iran are already directly affecting the energy markets and oil and gas transportation through the Strait of Hormuz,” Putin said. “More companies and governments have been thinking not only about speed but also [the] cost of transports.

A decisive factor is security, stability of transport routes and logistics chains that are less prone to crises, military conflicts or other external risks.”

He positioned Russia as a key player capable of providing reliable alternatives:

“Russia can offer the world such solutions and play an important role in forming a new architecture of global logistics and international trade as a whole.

For our partners, Russian logistic routes may be beneficial both economically due to reduced transit times, but also from the point of view of diversification of global transportation flows.”

The remarks come as the US-Israel-Iran conflict has raised serious concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint responsible for roughly one-fifth of global seaborne oil trade.

Disruptions in the region have already contributed to volatility in energy prices and prompted shipping companies to reassess routes.

Putin also suggested that the forum itself should become a regular biennial event to foster ongoing international cooperation in transport and logistics.

The 1st International Transport and Logistics Forum has drawn high-level participants from dozens of countries and organizations, focusing on Eurasian transport corridors, digital solutions, and the future of global supply chains in a changing geopolitical landscape.