Russia Cracks Down on Crypto Mining with Moscow Ban and Secret Farm Bust
Russia's government has tightened its grip on cryptocurrency mining, banning it in Moscow and parts of Kursk Oblast starting August 15, 2026. The ban will last until December 31, 2032.
The regional restriction was signed into law by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin as Government Decree No. 936, dated July 25, 2026. It amends an earlier decree from December 23, 2024.
Eight districts in Kursk Oblast and the town of Lgov are affected by the ban, which applies to local residents' participation in mining pools and similar activities, not just standalone mining operations.
This isn't Russia's first regional mining ban; a similar restriction is already active in 13 other energy-deficit regions, including Irkutsk Oblast, Buryatia, and Zabaykalsky Krai.