Russia Considers Year-Round Ban on Cryptocurrency Mining in Irkutsk Region

The Russian city of Irkutsk, known as a major center for Bitcoin mining, faces the prospect of a year-round ban on cryptocurrency operations starting April 1. This potential prohibition will encompass the southern part of the Siberian region and may remain in effect until mid-2031. This restriction comes following reports from Russian news outlets such as Kommersant, citing sources close to the government that suggest this comprehensive ban might be enforced as early as April 1st. The move would significantly impact local mining facilities, which collectively consume around 650 megawatts of electricity.