Why Ukraine Blocked Access to Polymarket
Ukraine has taken decisive action against Polymarket, a decentralised prediction market that operates on the Polygon blockchain. Authorities classified Polymarket’s activities as unlicensed gambling and instructed internet service providers (ISPs) within the country to block access to the platform’s domain.
This decision aligns with the regulations outlined in Resolution No. 695, issued by the National Commission for the Regulation of Electronic Communications (НКЕК) on December 10, 2025. Under Ukrainian law, any website facilitating gambling without a proper license is deemed illegal and must be restricted. ISPs are now legally required to enforce this block, failing which they could face serious legal repercussions.
Understanding Polymarket’s Operations
Polymarket is known for its decentralised prediction markets, allowing users to buy and sell shares representing the outcomes of real-world events. The transactions are conducted using USDC, a stablecoin, ensuring blockchain-based transparency and security.
For instance, prediction markets on the platform have revolved around geopolitics, economics, and even war-related scenarios, with bets exceeding $100 million by the end of 2025. While these features have brought popularity to Polymarket, they have also attracted scrutiny from regulators across the globe, including countries like Romania, France, Belgium, and Thailand.
Implications of Ukraine’s Decision
The move against Polymarket highlights Ukraine’s broader efforts to regulate online gambling and protect its citizens from unlicensed platforms. As part of this effort, hundreds of websites have been added to the public registry of blocked resources. Authorities have implemented stringent mechanisms for oversight, which include inspections and compliance reporting.
Polymarket’s estimated market valuation of $8 billion and its ability to process transactions on blockchain technology signify its influence. Despite its decentralised nature, Ukraine and other nations interpret prediction markets as gambling services under their respective legal frameworks. This classification forces platforms like Polymarket to acquire specific licenses or face restrictions.
Looking for Alternatives?
For users in Ukraine, navigating legal platforms is critical. Instead of turning to restricted or questionable websites, exploring regulated and licensed alternatives ensures safety and compliance with local laws.
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Regulation: The Future of Crypto-Based Betting
Ukraine’s crackdown on Polymarket reflects a growing global trend of regulatory oversight for blockchain and cryptocurrency-based platforms. While these platforms offer innovation and decentralised operations, countries are becoming cautious about their impact on legal frameworks and consumer welfare.
As the digital age progresses, finding a balance between innovation and regulation becomes increasingly important for governments and blockchain companies alike.
