EU Adds HTX to Russia Sanctions List: Transaction Ban Starts August 23
The European Union has added crypto exchange HTX to its latest Russia sanctions package. The move bars EU people and companies from dealing with the platform starting August 23, 2026.
Key Details of the Sanctions
The EU listed HTX (identified as HUOBI GLOBAL SA) among third-country financial and crypto providers. Officials say these firms help Russia bypass sanctions tied to the invasion of Ukraine.
The restriction does not freeze assets. It simply bans direct or indirect transactions with HTX. Eligible residents from the EU, European Economic Area, and Switzerland can apply to withdraw funds or close accounts. They must do so within three months after the ban begins.
Broader Crypto Platform Restrictions
The EU also targeted other exchanges in the same package. These include EXMO, Rapira, BitPapa, Aifory Pro, WhiteBird, NoOnecrypto, and Exnode. All face the same transaction ban from August 23.
This action forms part of the EU’s 21st sanctions package against Russia, adopted on July 23. The package named 218 individuals and entities—the largest group in four years. It also expanded limits on banks, crypto platforms, and oil traders.
New Mechanism for Future Sanctions
The EU created a wider rule that can block crypto platforms based in countries that repeatedly fail to stop Russia sanctions evasion. No countries appear on that list yet. The framework exists but remains unused for now.
HTX Response and Background
HTX stated it takes compliance seriously. The exchange works with regulators worldwide and runs active screening for sanctioned entities. It aims to keep a secure and compliant platform for users.
The identification as “HTX (HUOBI GLOBAL SA)” differs from earlier HTX comments. After UK sanctions on Huobi Global S.A. in May, an HTX spokesperson said the two entities were separate. The UK had linked Huobi Global S.A. to a Russia-connected payments firm called A7.
Blockchain firm TRM Labs recently claimed HTX rotated hot wallets across several chains after the UK action. HTX rejected this view. It called the moves routine security steps common in the industry.
HTX began as Huobi in China in 2013. It remains closely linked to Tron founder Justin Sun, whom the exchange describes as an adviser.
What This Means for Users
EU-based users and companies must stop new transactions with HTX after August 23. Those needing to exit positions should prepare applications early. The ban aims to close gaps in Russia’s access to crypto services while leaving room for limited withdrawals under strict rules.
