London elevates measures to contain Russian influence in UK
The UK will require anyone working on behalf of Russia’s government to register their activities in the country or face up to five years in jail, Security Minister Dan Jarvis announced on April 1.
“Russia presents an acute threat to UK national security,” Jarvis said in a statement.
“In recent years, its hostile acts have ranged from the use of a deadly nerve agent in Salisbury, espionage, arson and cyber attacks, including the targeting of UK parliamentarians through spear phishing campaigns, and clearly Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine has highlighted its intent to undermine European and global security.”
Under a new Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), anyone acting on instructions from Russia while in the UK must declare their activities. Failure to do so could result in a prison sentence of up to five years, according to the minister.
Jarvis said the registration requirement applies to anyone “engaged in any arrangement” with key Russian state bodies — including those tied to the head of state, the armed forces. and intelligence agencies. He added that several political parties under Moscow’s control, such as United Russia, will also be covered by FIRS.
Originally expected to launch in 2024, the registration program will now take effect July 1.
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