11.08.2025 22:43
Reports from internet sources indicate that Russian citizens can now acquire A7A5, a ruble-pegged stablecoin, using debit or credit cards issued by a bank currently under Western sanctions. This development raises serious concerns, as the A7A5 stablecoin is suspected of facilitating the global movement of Russian funds, thereby circumventing international financial restrictions imposed following the invasion of Ukraine. Furthermore, its alleged connection to a Moldovan oligarch and Grinex, a Kyrgyzstan-registered entity believed to be the successor to the sanctioned Russian crypto exchange Garantex, adds to the existing apprehension.
The ability to purchase A7A5 using sanctioned bank cards was revealed by Russian cryptocurrency media outlets, citing a recent announcement from the project's developers. Currently, only customers holding cards issued by PSB Bank can utilize this new purchasing method; however, future expansion to include other banks is anticipated. The purchasing process itself involves accessing a Kyrgyzstan-registered website, providing personal identification information (including passport details and proof of address), and verifying a Russian phone number. Users then select their desired A7A5 quantity, choose a blockchain network (Ethereum or Tron), and complete the payment via their bank card. The purchased tokens are immediately credited to the user's designated wallet.
A crucial aspect of the A7A5 system is its two-way functionality. Users can not only buy A7A5 stablecoins but also sell them, receiving rubles directly deposited into their linked bank accounts. Transaction limits are in place, with a minimum purchase of 100 tokens and a minimum withdrawal of 600. A monthly cap of 1.2 million A7A5 applies, equally distributed between buying and selling transactions. Furthermore, A7A5 offers additional flexibility: it can be exchanged for USDT (Tether) or held in a wallet that generates approximately 8% annual interest. However, access remains restricted to Russian Federation citizens, as the system is unavailable to individuals from other nations. These features, coupled with the suspicious nature of the coin's connections, highlight its potential role in facilitating illicit financial activities.
