Moscow and Kursk Districts Targeted by Russia's Expanded Crypto-Mining Ban
Russia's crypto-mining ban is expanding to cover Moscow and eight districts in the Kursk region, starting August 15, 2026. The measure will remain in effect until December 31, 2032, citing concerns over electricity capacity risks.
The Moscow region hosts 65 data centers with a combined capacity of 734 megawatts, while mining demand is estimated at around one gigawatt. Regional energy minister Sergei Voropanov noted that roughly half of this demand falls within Moscow and the surrounding region.
The ban targets mining activity, not ordinary cryptocurrency ownership, and also covers operators joining mining pools from prohibited locations. Existing controls have been in place since 2025, covering several North Caucasus republics, occupied Ukrainian territories, and parts of Siberia.