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EU expands Belarus crypto ownership ban to MiCA-regulated service providers
The decision takes effect immediately on July 24, with the expanded restrictions on EU-based crypto service providers starting Aug. 25.
The European Union will bar Belarusian nationals and residents from owning, controlling, or managing crypto exchanges and other crypto service providers regulated under its MiCA framework starting Aug. 25, according to Cointelegraph.
The measure is included in Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1847, adopted Thursday as an amendment to the EU sanctions framework targeting Belarus for its involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine. The change broadens an earlier restriction that had covered only crypto wallet, account, or custody services.
The expanded ban prevents Belarus-linked individuals from owning or controlling an EU-based entity providing “any other crypto-asset services” under MiCA, or from holding a position on its governing body. MiCA service categories cited include operating trading platforms, exchanging crypto assets, executing and transmitting client orders, placing crypto assets, providing transfers, and offering investment advice or portfolio management.
Cointelegraph also notes that the decision enters into force on July 24, after the end of MiCA’s transition period on July 1. The EU has been widening sanctions aimed at crypto platforms and financial networks it says help Russia evade restrictions tied to the Ukraine war, including extending a transaction ban to additional crypto-related service platforms outside the bloc as part of its 21st sanctions package.