Russia's Digital Ruble Set for 2026 Launch Amid Infrastructure Delays

According to PANews, Anatoly Aksakov, Chairman of the Financial Markets Committee of the Russian State Duma, announced on June 18 that the widespread implementation of the digital ruble is now scheduled for 2026. The initial plan was to launch after July 1, 2025, but it has been postponed to allow financial institutions more time to enhance their infrastructure. Since its pilot phase began in August 2023, the digital ruble initiative has expanded to include 15 banks, approximately 2,000 individuals, and 50 businesses. To date, the system has processed over 55,000 personal transfers and 15,000 payments for goods. The Central Bank of Russia has emphasized that the adoption of the digital ruble will be entirely voluntary, and there are no plans to eliminate cash or non-cash payment methods.