The UK imposes sanctions on HTX for alleged support of Russia, escalating regulatory pressure on digital asset operators linked to the region.
The UK has sanctioned HTX, a cryptocurrency exchange, for its alleged support of Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The move follows broader EU sanctions targeting crypto-related entities, including stablecoins and digital asset operators tied to Belarus and Russia.
HTX had previously faced legal action from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority in 2025 for illegal crypto promotions on platforms like TikTok, X, and Facebook. Russian lawmakers are also advancing measures to tighten oversight of unlicensed digital asset services, including potential criminal penalties and central bank registration requirements.
The sanctions reflect growing regulatory scrutiny of crypto exchanges facilitating transactions in sanctioned regions. No immediate market reaction was reported.