Crypto Association RAKIB Demands Public Apology from Russian Energy Ministry Over Slander

The Russian Association of Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain (RAKIB) is demanding a public apology from the Ministry of Energy. The controversy stems from comments made by Deputy Head of the Ministry, Pavel Snikkars, during a recent discussion on cryptocurrency mining. The panel discussion had the title “Cryptocurrency mining from the energy sector’s perspective. Regulation or freedom of action?” and was a part of the Russian Energy Week forum, according to Bits.media.

RAKIB accuses Snikkars of making slanderous statements against the organization and its leaders. Specifically, Snikkars alleged that half of RAKIB’s leadership is on a federal criminal wanted list and outside Russia. In response, RAKIB is seeking a public apology and retraction on the Ministry of Energy’s official platforms. The association views Snikkars’ comments as an abuse of his official position for slander.

The Ministry of Energy has confirmed receipt of RAKIB’s letter. According to the Ministry, Snikkars’ controversial statement was a reply to a claim made by a panelist. The panelist had said the Ministry had been warned about a significant rise in electricity consumption due to mining between 2017 and 2020. Because of this context, the Ministry might be justifying Snikkars’ remarks as an emotional response to being put on the spot.

RAKIB is an active commentator on Russian crypto legislation, recently asking the Finance Minister for more details on a bill that could criminalize mining. This incident elevates the tensions between regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders. With RAKIB demanding redress for what it perceives as slander, the spotlight is now on how the Ministry of Energy will respond. Will they apologize, or stand by their Deputy Head’s statements? Either way, this episode marks yet another chapter in the complicated relationship between Russian authorities and the burgeoning cryptocurrency sector.