Ukraine Blocks Polymarket Labeling It as Unauthorized Gambling

Important Decision by Ukrainian Authorities

Ukraine has blocked access to the prediction market platform Polymarket, categorizing its activities as unauthorized gambling under national law. The decision was issued by the National Commission for Regulation of Electronic Communications (NCEC) on December 10, 2025, through Resolution No. 695. This ruling requires internet service providers to restrict access to online resources that organize or facilitate gambling without a valid license.

In implementing this decision, the domain polymarket.com was added to the public registry of blocked websites in Ukraine, effectively cutting off local access to the platform, according to local media reports. Polymarket differentiates itself from traditional betting sites by allowing users to buy and sell shares related to the outcomes of real-world events, with prices reflecting market-driven probabilities rather than offering fixed odds.

The blocking of Polymarket comes in the context of Ukrainian authorities criticizing the platform for facilitating betting on geopolitical events related to the invasion of Russia. Additionally, Polymarket is restricted in 33 other countries, including France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, and Australia. Founded in 2020 by Shane Coplan, Polymarket has grown to become one of the most prominent prediction platforms globally, boasting an estimated valuation of 8 billion dollars.