Reports indicate a sharp rise in illegal crypto mining activities in Abkhazia. Powered by electricity supplied by Moscow, these operations have overwhelmed local infrastructure. Abkhazia’s energy provider attributes frequent rolling blackouts to these activities, straining the region’s resources. Tensions have escalated between the Abkhazian government and Moscow as energy demands continue to rise.
A tourist’s video highlights the noise from crypto miners in rural Abkhazia, drawing significant attention. Rising electricity tariffs in Russia from July 2025 further complicate energy shortages. The Abkhazian government is caught in a challenging situation, trying to manage energy crises while maintaining relations with Moscow amidst controversies surrounding crypto mining.