EU bans 14 crypto platforms, including Justin Sun's HTX, to block Russia sanctions evasion

The European Union has expanded its sanctions against Russia by banning 14 crypto platforms, including Justin Sun-owned HTX, accusing them of helping blocked Russian entities move funds and bypass sanctions. This move prohibits EU persons and firms from transacting with these platforms, signaling a tougher regulatory stance on crypto services aiding sanctions evasion. The EU's action marks a shift in enforcement, allowing bans on entire countries hosting such platforms, increasing pressure on crypto jurisdictions with weak sanctions controls. This crackdown highlights crypto's evolving role from a sanctions loophole to a key enforcement point.