Ethereum Co-Founder Buterin Backs Tornado Cash Developer Facing US Charges

Vitalik Buterin, a co-founder of Ethereum, has publicly expressed his support for Roman Storm, a developer of Tornado Cash, who is currently facing money laundering charges in the US. Buterin's stance underscores his belief that privacy is a crucial aspect of blockchain security, and that tools like Tornado Cash are essential for protecting users' financial information and the foundation of decentralized finance.

Buterin has not only voiced his support but also contributed financially to Storm's legal defense fund, which has already raised over $750,000. This fund includes donations from the Ethereum Foundation and Paradigm founder Matt Huang. Buterin's actions highlight his concern that the prosecution of privacy tool developers poses a threat to crypto innovation.

Storm is scheduled to face charges in a New York courtroom on July 14, 2025. The U.S. Treasury had previously sanctioned Tornado Cash in 2022, linking it to activities by groups like the North Korea-based Lazarus Group. However, a federal appeals court lifted these sanctions in March 2025, ruling that the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) had overreached. This decision bolsters Storm's defense and sets a precedent for open-source software and privacy in the digital realm.

Buterin's advocacy for privacy extends beyond Tornado Cash. He is a long-time proponent of privacy-enhancing technologies such as zero-knowledge proofs and encrypted messaging applications. He notes that these tools are increasingly being adopted by public agencies and companies, indicating a broader trend towards privacy-oriented solutions.

The legal battle surrounding Tornado Cash has sparked controversy within the crypto community. Many view the prosecution of Storm as an attack on developers' rights to create open-source tools. Buterin's support signals that innovation and privacy must be protected in blockchain development. He argues that privacy guidelines are vital for safeguarding user information amidst growing cybersecurity threats.

The Ethereum Foundation's matching of community donations to Storm's defense further emphasizes this message. This financial support, coupled with Buterin's public statements, positions the case as a critical test for decentralized finance. A favorable outcome could influence future government regulations on privacy tools and potentially shape global cryptocurrency policy.

Buterin also advocates for pluralistic digital identity systems, which enhance privacy while maintaining security. He criticizes centralized identity systems, such as Worldcoin, for compromising user agency. Instead, he proposes decentralized structures using various verification sources, including social networks and crypto wallets, to eliminate data monopolies and increase user control. This approach aligns with his vision of a secure digital future.