ChainCatcher news, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced today that the European Union will, for the first time, include cryptocurrencies within the scope of sanctions against Russia.
The new round of sanctions will prohibit cryptocurrency platforms from conducting transactions with Russia, and will also restrict foreign banking activities related to Russia's alternative payment systems. This move aims to close financial loopholes that allow Russia to circumvent sanctions. In addition to the crypto sector, the latest sanctions also cover multiple areas such as energy and banking, including a complete ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports to Europe, as well as sanctions on 118 "shadow fleet" vessels.