Russia Widens Crypto Mining Ban to Moscow and Surrounding Regions

Russia has expanded its restrictions on cryptocurrency mining to Moscow and surrounding areas, citing power supply concerns. The ban will take effect on August 15, 2026, and remain in place through December 31, 2032.

According to Russia's Resolution No. 936, signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on July 25, 2026, the updated rules add Moscow, the Moscow Region, and several territories in Kursk Region to the list of restricted areas.

The measure expands existing restrictions on cryptocurrency mining in areas facing electricity supply concerns, which were previously introduced in parts of Buryatia and the Zabaykalsky Krai. The Moscow Region's Energy Ministry estimated that Moscow and the Moscow Region have 65 data centers connected to the power grid with a combined capacity of 734 megawatts (MW), including 19 data centers in the Moscow Region with 233 MW of capacity.