Russia to pay Ukrainians in occupied territories with digital ruble starting October
Photo: Russia moves social payments in occupied territories to digital rubles (Getty Images)
The Kremlin will issue part of the social benefits in virtual currency to residents of the temporarily occupied territories, bringing them under full financial control, reports the Center for Countering Disinformation.
Starting October 1, Russia will test the digital ruble. The new form of the national currency will also be applied in the occupied areas of Ukraine, where part of social payments will be transferred in digital money.
Mass rollout
Russia plans a full rollout of the digital ruble between 2026 and 2028, gradually involving the country's largest banks and commercial companies.
Funds will be stored in special digital wallets on the Central Bank's platform, with access provided through banking apps and online services.
Full financial control
The system gives the state absolute control over transactions of both individuals and companies. The Kremlin will be able to track any purchase or financial flow.
Authorities will also be able to restrict the use of digital rubles by location or type of goods, block accounts without court orders, and automatically deduct taxes, fines, and other payments.
A tool of control
Officials present the project as a modernization of the financial system. In fact, it is designed not for citizens' convenience but as another tool of total control over the population and businesses.
"The use of this scheme in Ukraine's occupied territories shows Russia’s intention to further 'integrate' them into the 'Russian world' and deprive the local population of financial freedom," the Center for Countering Disinformation said.
Russia tightens control in occupied Ukraine
Earlier reports said Russian forces were installing "Russian world" satellite antennas to tighten control over the information space and isolate the territories from all news sources except pro-Russian ones.
Russian authorities also warned that Ukrainians who failed to obtain Russian passports by September 10 would be deported.
Russia is also preparing to accelerate the mobilization of Ukrainians in occupied territories. Short of resources, its forces will rely on forced conscription for compulsory service, along with pressure and blackmail against detainees and prisoners.
