Crypto exchange KuCoin has officially ceased all services and operations in Russia and Belarus, effective Oct. 29, 2026. The shutdown covers all exchange products across both jurisdictions in order to comply with legal requirements and international regulatory standards.
No Uniform Deadline: KuCoin Issues Custom Schedules per Account
In carrying out the shutdown, KuCoin is not enforcing a single, uniform withdrawal deadline for all users. Instead, the exchange is sending individual notifications directly to affected accounts. These direct messages outline customized timelines and guidance on closing active trading positions and withdrawing assets from the platform.
In terms of data transparency, KuCoin management has not disclosed the exact scale of users across the two regions. Neither the total number of affected user accounts nor the estimated total value of crypto assets held on the exchange has been made public.
For users who did not receive restriction notices, KuCoin stressed that no action is required on their part. Their accounts continue to function normally, subject to the exchange’s global terms of service. Additionally, KuCoin urged customers to remain vigilant against potential phishing scams exploiting the situation and reminded users to contact customer support only through official channels.
Global Regulatory Pressure and the Ripple Effects of EU Sanctions
KuCoin’s departure extends the growing list of crypto platforms pulling out of the region. The move follows exchange MEXC halting its services in Russia and Belarus on Oct. 20, 2026. Earlier, Bitget also updated its jurisdiction restrictions to include both nations on Oct. 16.
The exodus of crypto exchanges from the region intensified after the European Council adopted its 21st sanctions package on July 23, 2026. The new regulations target crypto-asset service providers to prevent sanctions evasion by Russia.
For users affected by the policy, proactively checking account notifications and withdrawing balances in a timely manner remain top priorities before exchange services shut down completely.
Reported by crypto.news.
Also read: How to Read Candlestick Charts for Beginners
Also read: Robinhood Brings RLUSD to 28.6 Million Users - Ripple System Enters Company Coffers and Bitstamp
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only, not financial advice. Cryptocurrency assets are highly volatile and carry significant risk. Always do your own research (DYOR) and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
