- Russia plans to prohibit cryptocurrency mining in occupied Ukrainian territories, citing electricity supply concerns
- The ban extends to multiple regions in Russia’s North Caucasus until 2031
- Partial mining restrictions will apply to Irkutsk, parts of Buryatia, and Zabaikalsky Krai during autumn-winter months
- The announcement comes just 18 days after Russia legalized crypto mining on November 1
- The decision coincides with the 1,000th day of the Russia-Ukraine conflict
Russia Halts Crypto Mining in Occupied Ukraine Amid Power Concerns
Russian authorities have implemented a sweeping ban on cryptocurrency mining operations across occupied Ukrainian territories, marking a sudden shift in policy.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced the decision during a high-level ministerial meeting focused on the country’s power infrastructure challenges.
The ban specifically targets the occupied regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson, according to a report from the Moscow Times.
Regional Impact and Timeline
The restrictions extend beyond occupied territories, affecting six regions in Russia’s North Caucasus with a complete mining ban until 2031.
Additional partial restrictions will impact the Irkutsk region, portions of Buryatia, and Zabaikalsky Krai during autumn-winter months through 2031.
This development comes after Russia officially legalized cryptocurrency mining operations on November 1, making the ban’s timing particularly notable.
Power Infrastructure Concerns
Russian officials cited a “difficult regime-balance” in the electricity sector as the primary motivation for the mining restrictions.
The autumn-winter period presents particular challenges for power supply and capacity management across affected regions.
Military Context
The announcement aligns with the 1,000-day mark of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
On the same day, Ukraine initiated its first deployment of US-provided long-range missiles into Russian territory, following the White House’s removal of usage restrictions.
The confluence of these events highlights the complex relationship between energy infrastructure, military operations, and cryptocurrency mining in the region.
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