According to a high-ranking politician, Russia is contemplating accepting Bitcoin as payment for its oil and gas exports.

According to Pavel Zavalny, "friendly" nations may be permitted to pay in cryptocurrency or local currency.

Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he would want "unfriendly" nations to purchase Russian gas in roubles.

The action is said to be intended to strengthen the Russian ruble, which has lost more than 20% of its value this year.