Binance Blocks 16 Crypto Platforms Amid Tightening EU Russia Sanctions

Binance has announced that it will block transactions with 16 crypto platforms as new European Union sanctions targeting Russia tighten controls on digital-asset transfers.

The restrictions come as regulators increase pressure on crypto platforms that could help Russia bypass international sanctions. The EU included HTX, formerly known as Huobi, and other crypto services in its latest Russia sanctions package, accusing them of helping frustrate measures imposed after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Binance said the restrictions are part of its compliance efforts and urged users to complete affected transfers before the relevant deadlines. Transfers involving the listed platforms could face additional checks or be blocked. The list includes Shelbit and Aban Tether, which were already restricted on Aug 7, as well as A7 Nigeria, A7 Africa, and PilotFinance, which will begin restrictions on Aug 23.

The EU said HTX supported A7 Limited Liability Company, a Russia-linked payments firm targeted over sanctions concerns. The UK also sanctioned HTX in May over alleged links to Russia's financial networks.