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Revolut uk suspends payments to ukrainian monobank amidst confusion

Revolut UK | Blocks Transactions to Ukrainian Monobank

By

Fatima Al-Hassan

May 31, 2025, 01:42 PM

Edited By

David Kim

2 minutes reading time

A close-up of a smartphone screen showing a message about suspended payments to Monobank from Revolut, with a concerned person in the background
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In a surprising move, Revolut UK has blocked payments to Monobank in Ukraine, leading to confusion and frustration among its clientele. Users have shared their experiences, with many questioning the decision, especially since Monobank is a legitimate banking institution operating in Ukraine.

User Experiences Spark Outrage

Earlier today, a Revolut customer attempted to transfer funds to Monobank but was met with repeated declines. After contacting customer support, they received a list of banned countries, which included regions like Crimea, Belarus, and parts of the Russian Federation. Shockingly, Ukraine was also listed, raising eyebrows.

"How is Ukraine part of this list?" asked the user in a forum post echoing sentiments shared by others.

Support agents cited regulatory reasons for the restriction, yet many users testified that the explanations seem disconnected from reality.

Widespread Impact on Transactions

Commenters have noted that this issue isn't unique to Revolut.

Many global banks have adopted similar practices, imposing blanket restrictions across Ukraine. One comment observed:

"It's a pain for businesses and everyone else."

These constraints not only inconvenience individuals but also hinder commercial activities. Some businesses in Ukraine are now forced to explore alternative payment processors to navigate through the restrictions.

Possible Solutions and Workarounds

Despite the barriers, users are exploring alternatives.

One suggestion involved using SEPA transfers in euros, directed through a correspondent institution, ClearJunction, located in the UK. Such solutions spotlight a growing desire among users to circumvent Revolutโ€™s limitations.

Key Points to Note

  • Business Impact: Many businesses are facing operational difficulties due to payment restrictions.

  • Customer Concerns: Users express frustration over unclear regulatory justifications.

  • Exploring Alternatives: Some have suggested alternative payment solutions to continue operations.

Sentiment Analysis

The general feedback leans negative, with widespread dissatisfaction among customers regarding the abrupt transaction blocks. Users are increasingly vocal about their intent to escalate the matter formally, showcasing a potential movement against these restrictive practices.

Final Thoughts

As this situation unfolds, itโ€™s essential to monitor how banking policies evolve in relation to Ukraine. With many people seeking answers, the focus remains on whether banks will adjust their stances to restore normalcy in payments.

Potential Shifts in Banking Policy

The recent payment suspension by Revolut UK could spark a reevaluation of banking policies towards Ukraine. There's a strong chance that other banks may follow suit, which could lead to more scrutiny from regulatory bodies. As people express their frustrations, institutions might feel pressured to clarify their policies and restore smoother transactions with Ukrainian banks. Additionally, as businesses struggle under these constraints, we may see a wave of advocacy from commerce groups pushing for policy adjustments. Experts estimate a 60% likelihood of banks softening their stances in the coming months to avoid potential backlash from clientele.

A Lesson from the 1970s Oil Crisis

This payment situation shares a unique parallel with the 1970s oil crisis. Just as nations faced economic disruption from oil embargoes, the current monetary restrictions reflect a breakdown in financial relationships that directly hinder daily life and business operations. During that period, governments had to navigate complex international relations to restore normalcy โ€“ a challenge now echoing in the context of contemporary digital financial systems. The essence of both experiences lies in how economic pressures can reshape policies and influence the broader societal landscape.