740 USDT and a terrorism case: how a cryptocurrency transfer led an IT director into custody
A precedent has been established in the Russian jurisdiction that should alarm all participants in the crypto industry. Law enforcement agencies have filed a final indictment for aiding terrorist activities against Yuri Belenky, the IT director of DiHouse. The reason was stablecoin transfers equivalent to 740 USDT.
Both defendants — Belenky and journalist Arkady Babchenko — have been added to the register of terrorists and extremists. Babchenko has also been recognized as a foreign agent. Belenky categorically denies his guilt, but the investigation insists otherwise.
Details of the criminal case: from USDT to charges of funding the Armed Forces of Ukraine
According to the prosecution, Belenky made at least seven transactions from his electronic address between January 2023 and March 2024. The total amount of transfers exceeded 740 USDT, equivalent to more than 62,000 rubles. These funds, it is alleged, were intended to finance the Armed Forces of Ukraine and a terrorist organization banned in Russia.
The top manager's lawyers describe the case as unique. According to them, this is the first time in the capital region that a criminal case on terrorism financing has been considered, where virtual assets became key evidence. This highlights a new reality: even small amounts in cryptocurrency can serve as grounds for serious charges.
Timeline of the proceedings and defense status
The criminal case was opened on October 10, 2025, against a 40-year-old resident of Moscow, who was taken into custody last fall. The materials collected by the investigation comprise two volumes. The case includes an exclusively positive reference from the defendant's workplace, which contrasts with the severity of the charges brought.
Recently, a hearing on the appeal was held at the Moscow City Court. The defense lawyer requested that the IT director be placed under house arrest, accusing the opposing side of unjustified delays. However, the court upheld the decision to extend his detention until July 10. Defense representatives officially confirmed the completion of the preliminary investigation but flatly refused to comment on other nuances of the case.
Analyst's opinion: This case clearly demonstrates how regulatory risks in the cryptocurrency sphere can materialize in the most unexpected forms. Even a transfer of less than a thousand dollars can initiate multi-level criminal prosecution. Market participants should be extremely cautious about counterparties and the purpose of transfers, especially in jurisdictions with strict anti-terrorism legislation.