Russia Slams Brakes on Moscow Crypto Mining Amid Power Supply Worries

Russia has expanded its restrictions on cryptocurrency mining to include Moscow and the surrounding region. The ban, which will take effect on August 15, 2026, is set to remain in place until December 31, 2032. This move aims to address power supply concerns in areas facing growing electricity demand.

The updated rules, outlined in Resolution No. 936 signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on July 25, 2026, add Moscow and the Moscow Region to the list of restricted areas. The ban also covers several territories in Russia's Kursk Region, including eight municipal districts and the city of Lgov.

The restrictions are part of existing measures to curb cryptocurrency mining in areas facing electricity supply concerns. Earlier this year, similar bans were introduced in parts of Buryatia and the Zabaykalsky Krai, where a mining ban is set to run from April 1, 2026, through March 15, 2031.