Ethereum Foundation announced it will match community donations for Roman Storm's defense, who is facing money laundering charges.
Ethereum Foundation Support
The Ethereum Foundation confirmed that it will match donations for the defense fund of Roman Storm. This decision underscores the network's commitment to open code and user privacy.
Fundraising Conditions
Storm's legal team warns that only 19 days remain to raise the necessary funds. Foundation support could secure high-caliber attorneys as the case approaches trial. For many developers, this effort defends the right to build private financial tools.
Tornado Cash and Ethereum Situation
Tornado Cash was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2022 due to alleged money laundering linked to the Axie Infinity hack. Since then, Storm's prosecution has become a rallying point for the community. The charges are viewed as a test of free software development in finance. In March 2025, the U.S. Treasury lifted the sanctions on Tornado Cash, renewing hope for DeFi projects and indicating shifts in regulatory approach.
The situation surrounding Roman Storm and his defense raises important questions about freedom and the right to develop software in the financial sector.
