The European Union is preparing a sweeping ban on cryptocurrency transactions involving Russian entities, even as Russian financial firms accelerate efforts to institutionalize crypto investment products at home. Summary The European Commission is proposing a blanket ban on all cryptocurrency transactions involving Russian entities as part of its 20th sanctions package. The measure aims to close loopholes that previously allowed sanctioned Russian crypto platforms to rebrand or reroute transactions. Meanwhile, Russian broker Finam has launched a regulated cryptocurrency mining investment fund registered with the Bank of Russia, signaling deeper institutional adoption of digital assets in Russia. EU targets Russian crypto with sweeping ban According to a recent Financial Times report, the European Commission is proposing a blanket prohibition on crypto dealings between EU individuals or companies and any crypto-asset service provider established in Russia. The measure forms part of the bloc’s 20th sanctions package against Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine. Unlike previous rounds that targeted specific exchanges or wallets, the new proposal would ban all Russian-linked crypto transactions, aiming to close loopholes that allowed sanctioned entities to rebrand or shift operations. EU officials argue that cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and digital payment rails have created alternative channels for cross-border value transfers outside traditional banking oversight. The draft reportedly includes restrictions tied to Russian digital finance infrastructure such as ruble-linked stablecoins and any future central bank digital currency. However, the plan requires unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states, a hurdle that could complicate adoption and enforcement. Russia deepens crypto investment push At the same time, Russia’s domestic crypto sector is expanding. Broker Finam has launched trading in units of a new investment fund focused on cryptocurrency mining operations. The fund pools capital to finance industrial-scale mining infrastructure, including facilities powered by natural gas in regions such as Mordovia. It has been registered with the Bank of Russia, signaling increasing formalization of the sector. The move reflects Russia’s broader strategy to regulate and legitimize crypto mining after legal reforms in recent years. With abundant energy resources and cold climates suitable for mining operations, Russia has positioned itself as a significant global mining hub. Structured investment vehicles like Finam’s fund provide domestic investors exposure to digital asset production without directly holding cryptocurrencies. For Brussels, digital assets represent a potential sanctions-evasion channel requiring tighter restrictions. For Moscow, crypto mining and regulated investment products are becoming tools of economic resilience and financial innovation under Western pressure.
