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Russia Designates Crypto Exchange WhiteBit ‘Undesirable’ Over Alleged Ukraine Funding

Prosecutors frame the step as a national‑security measure tied to claimed financing of Ukraine.

Overview

  • The General Prosecutor’s Office said the decision covers WhiteBit and affiliated W Group entities, making their activities illegal to support in Russia and enabling domestic restrictions.
  • Officials alleged the platform is used by exchanges and exchangers for “gray schemes” to move money out of Russia and for other unlawful transactions.
  • Prosecutors claimed WhiteBit leadership transferred about $11 million to Ukrainian recipients in 2022, including $900,000 for drone systems.
  • The announcement cited the exchange’s technical support for United24, a Ukrainian government‑backed fundraising platform operating since May 2022.
  • Authorities said executives also participate in charity auctions whose proceeds fund drones for Ukrainian fighters, including members of the Azov group, which is banned in Russia.