Vitalik Buterin, one of the co-founders of Ethereum 
$3,630, donated 100 ETH to Alexey Pertsev, the developer of Tornado Cash, who is under U.S. sanctions. Buterin made two contributions to assist Pertsev in covering his legal expenses, with the donations totaling approximately $340,000. This significant support highlights Buterin’s commitment to standing with developers facing legal challenges in the cryptocurrency space.
Details of the Donation
According to Etherscan data, Buterin donated 50 ETH twice to support Pertsev’s legal battle. The first donation was valued at around $170,000 and the second matched that same amount, bringing the total to 100 ETH, equating to approximately $340,000. This assistance has greatly aided Pertsev in managing his legal costs.
Legal Proceedings Against Tornado Cash
In May 2024, Alexey Pertsev was sentenced to five years and four months in prison by a Dutch court for money laundering charges. The U.S. banned the use of Tornado Cash in 2022 on national security grounds. However, in November of last year, a U.S. appeals court lifted the Tornado Cash ban, leaving the future legal status of Tornado Cash and similar platforms uncertain.
The lawsuit against Tornado Cash, coupled with Buterin’s support, has sparked a new sense of solidarity among developers facing legal issues in the cryptocurrency world. Buterin’s backing also raises discussions about the necessity for transparency and accountability within the community.
Buterin’s actions have resonated widely within the cryptocurrency community. The legal proceedings surrounding Tornado Cash and Buterin’s donations could play a significant role in shaping future regulations. Community support for cryptocurrency developers has become increasingly vital in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
