On Feb 6, the European Commission unveiled a sweeping 20th sanctions package on Russia that goes well beyond oil: it specifically sanctions crypto services used by Russia’s shadow economy. The proposal bans any ship services aiding Russian oil exports and “takes measures against cryptocurrency companies that enable Russia to circumvent Western sanctions”. In effect, the EU is preparing to crack down on crypto-based sanctions evasion (in line with recent actions against Russian-linked crypto firms). This development feeds into a broader risk-off narrative. Global uncertainty is at historic highs – the World Uncertainty Index hit a record 106,862 in Feb 2026, above the peaks of COVID and 2008 – driven by trade wars and conflicts. In such a climate, investors may flock to traditional havens ($XAU gold is surging above $5,500) but also grow wary of crypto’s regulatory risks. Analysts note that in past fiat crises (e.g. Iran, Argentina), people talk more about Bitcoin as an “exit option”, yet heavy-handed sanctions can slow actual crypto adoption. For now, markets are bracing for volatility: $BTC and $XRP might see short-term lifts on safe-haven searches, but also face headwinds if regulators clamp down. This mix of geopolitical pressure on energy, trade, and now crypto underscores how quickly “crypto as global money” can become “crypto under the microscope.” #RussiaCrypto #Europe #CryptoNewss #Politics