The United Kingdom has introduced another package of sanctions against financial institutions and cryptocurrency platforms that, according to the government, have ties to Russia and facilitate the circumvention of international restrictions. The list includes not only Russian entities but also companies registered in Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, and the United Arab Emirates.
This is reported by Business • Media
New measures against shadow financial structures of the Russian Federation
The sanctions list covers 18 organizations and individuals, including banks, cryptocurrency exchanges, and financial companies. According to London, these entities have helped Russia circumvent existing international financial restrictions, particularly by using alternative banking systems and cryptocurrency for illegal fund transfers.
The British authorities have paid special attention to the A7 network, which is suspected of redirecting financial flows and facilitating the circumvention of sanctions through foreign banking institutions. The country’s authorities emphasized the need for continued pressure on the Kremlin’s financial resources.
The British government stated that the restrictions are aimed at “shadow financial systems” that support the Russian economy and military procurement.
Under the new sanctions, the assets of the individuals and entities on the list will be frozen, and British companies are prohibited from conducting financial transactions with them. Additionally, the termination of correspondent banking relationships with these organizations is provided for.
HTX exchange among key targets of sanctions
Among the organizations that have come under the new restrictions is Huobi Global S.A. — a cryptocurrency exchange currently operating under the HTX brand. British authorities accuse the platform of providing financial services and resources to individuals and companies linked to the Russian financial sector. HTX representatives claim that the company complies with all regulatory requirements in the countries where it operates, including the United Kingdom.
Additional pressure on HTX is exerted by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) of the United Kingdom. As early as October 2025, this regulator filed a lawsuit against the exchange, accusing HTX of illegally promoting cryptocurrency services to British users.
The UK Foreign Office emphasized that the country, together with its partners, will continue to identify and block financial schemes that help Russia circumvent the sanctions regime.
It is worth reminding that the European Union previously banned crypto transactions with Russian services as part of the 20th sanctions package.
