However, casino operators based outside of Russia still operate freely in the country and gambling online remains a popular pastime amongst Russians.Īll forms of betting were outlawed in Russia in 1928, before political reform led to a near 20-year golden period between 19, but prohibition is back in Russia under the current regime of Vladimir Putin, although this may be a case of shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted.
Online gambling regulations are clearer in Russia than in many other countries, with online casino play being illegal in all but the four designated areas. Despite having a thriving gaming industry less than two decades ago, most forms of gambling – both online and offline – are now banned in the country, with the exception of four designated government zones.
As a country, Russia has had an on/off relationship with gambling throughout the course of its history, with regulations dictated by the various political regimes of the time.
