Russia
Siberian Region Partners With Universa to Create Blockchain Tourism Destination
Over 500,000 tourists visited Western Siberia in 2018, according to regional authorities, who are hoping a digital ecosystem will attract more.

Russian Retailer Dixy Using Ethereum Tech to Streamline Trade Finance
Grocery chain Dixy has partnered with a blockchain startup to greatly reduce the time it takes to pay suppliers

Russian Central Bank to Consider Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency
The Bank of Russia will consider the use of a gold-backed cryptocurrency to facilitate international settlements, according to its governor.

Russian Opposition Leader Raises $3 Million in Bitcoin Donations
Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has attracted $3 million in bitcoin donations over the last three years.

Russian Gas Giant Gazprom to Execute Business Contracts on a Blockchain
Russian state-owned gas giant Gazprom may soon begin using blockchain to execute and monitor contracts as part of its digitization plans.

Alleged BTC-e Operator Alexander Vinnik Seeks Extradition to Russia
Alleged bitcoin launderer Alexander Vinnik, who is wanted by several countries, has filed in Greece for extradition to Russia.

US Treasury Sanctions Russian Bank Over Links to Venezuela’s Petro
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has sanctioned a Moscow-based bank over its role in financing Venezuela’s controversial petro token.

Russia’s Sberbank Uses Smart Contract to Settle Three-Way Repo Deal
Russia’s Sberbank has settled a three-way repurchase agreement using blockchain tech, calling it a "world's first."

Huobi Exchange's Plans for Russia Go Well Beyond Crypto Trading
Huobi exchange, which just opened an office in Moscow, wants to lend money and rent space to Russian miners, shape the country's regulations and train local blockchain talent.

Police Filings Mount as Investors Demand Funds from WEX Exchange
Users of the WEX exchange have begun filing police reports after more than three months of being unable to withdraw major cryptocurrencies or fiat.
