Nabiullina pledged not to impose the digital ruble forcefully., 2026/03/26 14:48:27

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Набиуллина пообещала не навязывать цифровой рубль силой0

The use of the digital ruble will not be mandatory for Russian citizens, stated Elvira Nabiullina, the head of the Bank of Russia.

The Central Bank leader explained that starting from September 1, certain banks will be required to provide clients with the ability to conduct transactions using digital rubles, while commercial and service enterprises will need to accept this payment method.

“By September, as stipulated by law, the largest banks will be prepared to offer digital ruble services to all clients who wish to utilize them. However, I want to emphasize that while the digital ruble will be mandatory for infrastructure, it will not be compulsory for citizens,” Nabiullina assured.

The official added that accounts in digital rubles will not be automatically opened for all Russians — “the connection will remain voluntary.”

“The digital ruble will have its advantages: free transfers for individuals, minimal fees for businesses, and convenient services. But if a person does not need it, they simply will not open a digital ruble account,” Nabiullina stated.

According to her, the Bank of Russia does not plan to artificially accelerate the implementation of the digital ruble and aims to make it beneficial for individuals and businesses.

Previously, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation approved updated rules for access to the digital ruble for entrepreneurs and individuals, clarifying the procedure for opening accounts.