Russia Expands Regional Crypto Mining Ban to Moscow and Parts of Kursk

Russia has expanded its regional cryptocurrency mining restrictions to Moscow and parts of Kursk, effective August 15, 2026. The ban will remain in place until December 31, 2032.

The decision aims to reserve electricity capacity for other consumers rather than new or existing cryptocurrency mining operations. This move follows earlier restrictions introduced in regions where mining was viewed as a risk to electricity reliability.

Mining pools are also prohibited in the affected territories, as the authorities consider participation in mining pools to be equivalent to direct cryptocurrency mining.