The Russian government is preparing a legislative shift that could significantly impact the cryptocurrency sector. A new draft law, initiated under President Vladimir Putin’s directive, seeks to ban the mining of digital currencies in data centers—aiming to free up computing power for artificial intelligence and digitalization projects.

🔹 Crypto Miners Under Pressure as AI Becomes a National Priority

Lawmakers have added key provisions to the draft bill—designed to accelerate the development of data processing centers (DPCs)—that would prohibit crypto miners from operating within these facilities. Miners will be denied access to cheap electricity, which is currently being offered as an incentive to DPC operators.

This move is intended to block cryptocurrency companies from claiming state-backed benefits, particularly during a time when Russia seeks to channel all available energy resources into strategic technological goals like AI.

🔹 New Definition for Data Centers in Russian Legislation

The proposal redefines a data center not merely as a “server room” but as a formal communications facility. These will need to be registered with the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media. Once registered, DPCs will be strictly prohibited from hosting mining equipment or engaging in crypto-related activities.

According to official sources, the bill is expected to pass its second reading in the State Duma by the end of this month.

🔹 Diverging Treatment of Crypto and AI Infrastructure

While data centers enjoy institutional support following a 2020 presidential order, the crypto industry is facing increasingly restrictive policies. Even though Russia legalized crypto mining in 2024, it simultaneously allowed regional authorities to impose local bans—which have already taken effect in over a dozen territories.

Regional governors, especially in areas like Irkutsk, have complained about mining operations consuming vast amounts of subsidized electricity. Speaking at a recent development forum, President Putin said:

“We used to be glad we had electricity surpluses. Then mining started, and governors began complaining. We had to act.”

🔹 The Law May Hurt Data Centers as Well

Experts warn that if passed in its current form, the law could damage not just miners but also data center operators. Blockchain and energy analyst Oleg Ogienko explains that many Russian DPCs host mining hardware on-site, and banning such activity could cause significant financial losses.

He cited the example of Russia’s largest data center in the Irkutsk region, run by mining giant BitRiver, which would be heavily impacted. Ogienko also warned that removing mining as a revenue source might slow down the broader digital infrastructure expansion, as many operators rely on it to fund their facilities.


📌 Summary:

Russia is clearly shifting focus toward state-led digital infrastructure and AI development at the expense of cryptocurrency mining. If passed, this law would reshape the operational landscape for both crypto miners and data centers, marking another major regulatory step in Russia’s evolving crypto policy.



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