EU širi sankcije protiv Rusije na kripto sektor
The European Union has joined the United States in imposing new sanctions on Russia. EU leaders signed off on the measures just hours after President Trump announced sanctions targeting Russia’s two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil. The 19th package of anti-Russia sanctions broadens restrictions across financial services — including the crypto sector.
Broader measures target finance and energy
On Thursday, the Council of the European Union adopted the 19th sanctions package against Russia, adding 69 individuals and several entities to the list. The measures target key sectors fueling Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — notably energy, finance, and the military-industrial complex. “The 19th package will not be the last. Every euro we deny Russia is one it cannot spend on war,” said EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, underlining the bloc’s commitment to tightening pressure.
Expanding bans on banks and payments
Five more Russian banks have been added to the transaction ban list, cutting them off completely from any dealings with EU operators. New bans also hit Russia’s domestic payment systems Mir and SBP, while four financial institutions in Belarus and Kazakhstan using the Russian SPFS system are included as well.
Crypto sector faces full-fledged restrictions
For the first time, the EU has imposed comprehensive sanctions targeting cryptocurrencies. The new rules hit the developer of the rouble-backed stablecoin A7A5, its Kyrgyz issuer, and a major trading platform associated with the project. The use of this coin is now explicitly prohibited.
Additionally, the sanctions target a crypto exchange in Paraguay that allegedly helped Russia bypass previous financial restrictions. “By addressing the use of stablecoins and offshore exchanges, the EU aims to close loopholes and strengthen its sanctions framework,” said the European Commission.
Crypto services and transactions restricted
EU entities are now banned from providing crypto and fintech services that could enable Russia to develop its own financial infrastructure or evade sanctions. Moreover, EU operators are prohibited from transacting with five Central Asian banks accused of supporting Russia’s war economy.
The EU package mirrors recent US actions. “With the imminent adoption of the EU’s 19th package, this is a clear signal from both sides of the Atlantic that we will keep up collective pressure on the aggressor,” said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/23/world/europe/eu-russia-sanctions.html
https://x.com/vonderleyen/status/1981109768581243195