TLDR

Russia plans to block access to foreign cryptocurrency exchanges by summer 2026 as part of new regulations.
The move aims to shift crypto trading to regulated domestic platforms and ensure revenue stays within Russia.
Sergey Shvetsov mentioned that Russian users currently pay $15 billion annually in fees to foreign crypto platforms.
The government intends to use tools like DNS blocking and internet traffic monitoring to enforce these regulations.
Foreign exchanges that do not comply with data localization laws could face restrictions under the new rules.

Russia is preparing to impose restrictions on foreign cryptocurrency exchanges by summer 2026. The government aims to bring digital asset trading under formal supervision. These changes will likely align with new cryptocurrency legislation set to replace the existing temporary framework. The planned move signals a shift toward greater control over crypto activity in the country.

Domestic Platforms Become Priority

Russian authorities plan to shift cryptocurrency trading onto regulated domestic exchanges. Sergey Shvetsov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Moscow Exchange, mentioned that Russian users pay about $15 billion annually in fees to foreign crypto platforms. This significant outflow of money has raised concerns, prompting officials to focus on local exchanges to ensure that revenue stays within Russia’s financial system.

Authorities believe that by regulating exchanges and crypto wallet activity, they can closely monitor transactions. This regulatory oversight will allow the government to enforce compliance and better manage digital asset flows. Domestic platforms are expected to benefit from this new focus, ensuring that crypto-related revenue supports Russia’s infrastructure and economy.

Russia’s Planned Technical Restrictions on Foreign Platforms

Russia may adopt DNS blocking and internet traffic monitoring tools to enforce these new crypto regulations. Experts predict that Roskomnadzor, the country’s communications regulator, will play a key role in restricting access to foreign exchanges that fail to comply. These tools could prevent Russian users from accessing unregulated platforms, pushing traders toward local exchanges that adhere to the new laws.

The move to block foreign platforms might also be justified under Russia’s data localization requirements. These regulations require digital services to store user data within the country. Foreign exchanges that do not comply with this rule could face restrictions, further encouraging traders to use domestic platforms.

Risks of Increased Underground Trading

Experts warn that blocking foreign exchanges could drive crypto trading underground. Traders may resort to decentralized exchanges, peer-to-peer transactions, or VPN services to bypass restrictions. Such shifts could increase fraud risks and reduce transparency, making the market harder to regulate.

Despite these potential challenges, Russian authorities seem determined to implement tighter controls over the crypto market. The growing popularity of international platforms among Russian users suggests that some demand for foreign exchanges will persist. However, the new regulations are expected to significantly alter the landscape of crypto trading in Russia, with a clear push toward local exchanges.

The post Russia to Shift Crypto Trading to Domestic Platforms by 2026 appeared first on CoinCentral.

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Filed under: News - @ February 18, 2026 10:25 am