EU 20th and 21st sanctions packages: what changed for crypto
The EU 20th package (May 24, 2026) and 21st package (July 24, 2026) — what they mean for crypto, which addresses and platforms are sanctioned, and the impact on P2P and holders.
2026 was a turning point for EU crypto sanctions. Two packages — the 20th and 21st — significantly expanded the blacklist of crypto addresses and platforms. What exactly changed and how it affects the market.
EU 20th package (May 24, 2026)
- Ban on crypto-assets from Russia/Belarus.
- Expanded list of addresses linked to sanctions evasion.
- Tightened requirements for exchanges on AML screening.
EU 21st package (July 24, 2026)
- Expanded to 14 crypto platforms under sanctions (including Whitebird).
- Decision (CFSP) 2026/1847 — prohibition on transactions with Belarusian crypto providers from August 25, 2026.
- Additional personal sanctions against individuals linked to Garantex and Bitzlato.
14crypto platforms under EU sanctions after the 21st package
Aug 25, 2026deadline to exit Whitebird
+694%sanctions evasion growth in 2025 (Chainalysis)
What this means for the market
For P2P traders
- Addresses linked to the 14 platforms are now on the EU consolidated list.
- Any P2P from these addresses = "dirty" funds.
- Exchanges are tightening KYT (Know Your Transaction) — more deposit blocks.
For holders
- If funds are on a sanctioned platform — the window for withdrawal is closing.
- After the effective date — withdrawal = transferring a sanctioned balance.
For exchanges and swap services
- Mandatory screening against the EU consolidated list (previously — only OFAC).
- Fines for trades with sanctioned addresses.
How VerifAML helps
VerifAML screens addresses against EU consolidated sanctions (after the author connects the EU Login URL) and OFAC SDN. Any address from the 14 platforms of the 21st package will yield a risk score of 90 (Critical).
Comparison with OFAC
| Parameter | OFAC SDN | EU consolidated |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | USA | EU |
| Access | Public, direct XML | EU Login, programmatic URL |
| Crypto addresses | ~959 | ~comparable |
| License | Public domain | Public domain |
| Updates | Daily (our cron) | Daily (after EU URL) |
Related materials
VerifAML is an informational service. Information is based on public EU documents.