Russia Tests Cryptocurrency Cross-Border Payments Under Sanctions

Russia has begun testing an experimental framework allowing selected companies to use cryptocurrency for cross-border trade settlements under an experimental legal regime.

The Bank of Russia said participation is limited to approved entities, with cryptocurrency settlements permitted only for eligible foreign-trade agreements rather than general domestic payments.

Overseas exchanges, custodians, and stablecoin issuers remain subject to international sanctions rules, but the framework creates a state-backed payment channel for approved foreign-trade transactions.