Russia’s central bank is getting serious about crypto. By 2026, it wants a tough set of rules in place plus some real penalties for anyone who steps out of line. After years of mixed signals, the country’s clearly moving toward tighter control and more active enforcement.

Officials say their top priority is stopping people from using crypto for regular payments inside Russia. They’re also planning to crack down on trading, custody, and mining. Sure, Russia’s let crypto slide as an investment option and sometimes for cross-border deals, but regulators have always worried about money sneaking out of the country, crime, and people getting burned. This new framework will finally close the loopholes that let businesses and individuals operate in those gray areas.

Here’s what’s really changing: clear consequences are on the table now. We’re talking fines for people making unapproved crypto transactions, tougher rules for exchanges dealing with Russians, and serious penalties for anyone caught helping with illegal payments. Mining companies aren’t getting a free pass either. They’ll have to deal with more paperwork, especially about energy and taxes.

But don’t think Russia’s about to ban crypto completely. That’s not the plan. They just want to keep it boxed in and tightly controlled, not something you use every day like regular money. And honestly, that’s the trend everywhere. Governments know crypto isn’t going anywhere, but they want to stay in charge.

If you’re running a crypto business or investing in Russia, 2026 is your new deadline. You’ll need to get ready for a lot more rules and a lot less wiggle room.