Budget

By Josh Pearson , 29 January 2026

Russia’s Finance Ministry is reportedly evaluating a major shift in gambling policy that could see online casinos legalized after more than a decade of prohibition. The proposal comes as authorities search for additional revenue streams to support a strained federal budget amid prolonged military expenditures and economic headwinds. While online betting through licensed bookmakers is already permitted, a vast parallel market of unregulated digital casinos continues to flourish.