Starting July 1, 2025, the United Kingdom will implement a new system for monitoring foreign influence — the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS). Russia has officially been added to the list of countries whose cooperation will require mandatory registration. Failure to comply may result in up to five years in prison.
The British government announced the decision, emphasizing that Russia poses a “persistent and growing threat” to the national security of the United Kingdom. The new registration framework is being introduced under the National Security Act and is designed to counter foreign interference in British affairs.
Under the FIRS rules, individuals and organizations working on behalf of Russian state entities — including the government, armed forces, intelligence services, judiciary, parliament, or political parties — will be required to register their activities. A public registry will be available online, with certain personal information withheld.
Russia becomes the second country, after Iran, to be classified under the scheme’s “highest risk category.” Bloomberg has reported that China may soon join the list as the third designated state.
Political Influence Also Under Scrutiny
In addition to the enhanced threat category, the FIRS introduces a separate political category, targeting individuals engaged in spreading political influence on behalf of foreign states. Registrations must be completed within 28 days of entering into the relevant agreement.
According to the government’s explanatory materials, being listed in the registry does not equate to accusations of espionage. London has rejected the characterization of FIRS as a “register of foreign spies,” emphasizing that the new system will not infringe on freedom of expression or legitimate political activity but will instead promote greater transparency.
Response to Espionage Scandals
The tightening of measures against Russia comes amid a series of high-profile espionage cases. About a month ago, three UK residents were convicted of spying for Moscow in what police described as a “highly sophisticated” and “industrial-scale” operation. Three more suspects pleaded guilty before trial proceedings even began.
Against the backdrop of rising tensions, the British Foreign Office stated that Moscow has ramped up hostile activities in recent years — including harassing diplomats and recruiting agents within the UK. Foreign Secretary David Lammy directly accused Russia of malicious interference in British politics.
Diplomatic tensions have also escalated: after allegations of intelligence activities were leveled against British embassy staff in Moscow, London revoked the accreditation of a Russian diplomat and the spouse of another Russian envoy. The Russian Foreign Ministry warned of a “decisive mirror response” if Britain escalates the situation further.