币界网报道：Russia's central bank has announced plans to launch the digital ruble for all citizens by September 2026, marking a significant step in the country's CBDC development. The phased rollout will begin with a pilot program in September 2023 involving 13 banks and limited transactions, gradually expanding to include more participants and use cases like smart contracts and offline payments. Bank of Russia Governor Elvira Nabiullina emphasized the digital ruble's role in creating a "new payment infrastructure" that will coexist with existing systems while improving efficiency. The CBDC will feature programmable capabilities and is designed to function without internet access, addressing concerns about connectivity in remote areas. This move follows Russia's increased focus on digital payment alternatives amid international sanctions, with officials suggesting the digital ruble could facilitate cross-border settlements with friendly nations.