EU sanctions on A7 cryptocurrency network related to Russian interference in elections

According to Decrypt, the EU has sanctioned key actors who use cryptocurrency to interfere in elections and evade sanctions, including pro Kremlin Simeon Boikov and Moldova's A7 platform. Boikov has been sanctioned for spreading false videos of Georgian voter fraud in the 2024 US elections. He received donations through cash exchanges for cryptocurrency, the dark web, and Russian exchanges that did not comply with KYC regulations. The sanctions also target A7 OOO, a company suspected of influencing elections in Moldova, which was exploited by fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor, who caused Moldova to lose $1 billion. TRM Labs executives stated that the ruble stablecoin A7A5 issued by A7 is aimed at evading sanctions. Although media reports indicate that its circulation reached $9.3 billion in four months, there is no official confirmation. However, given its purpose, it is not surprising that the circulation is large, and the use of physical entities is actually rare. The UK has imposed sanctions on A7 several months in advance, indicating strengthened international cooperation.