EU Adds HTX Exchange to Russia Sanction Targets

The European Union has included the cryptocurrency exchange HTX in its list of sanctioned entities related to Russia. According to blockchain media CoinTelegraph, the European Council amended existing sanctions against Russia to add HTX to the sanctions list. HTX, previously operated by Huobi Global, was added to the list of 18 entities significantly hindering Russia-related sanctions measures outside the EU. The EU determined these entities provide cryptocurrency or payment services that circumvent or weaken sanctions. The European Council stated it has continuously identified financial institutions, credit institutions, and cryptocurrency service providers aiding Russia's Ukraine war efforts. It emphasized prohibiting all transactions with entities linked to Russia's financial messaging system or circumventing EU restrictions. HTX is also sanctioned by the UK, which imposed sanctions in May citing reasonable grounds that HTX facilitated Russian government support through sanctioned financial services and funds.