The United Kingdom announced sanctions on several Russian and Chinese entities on 9 December 2025 after assessments concluded that these groups engaged in false information warfare targeting Western states.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who outlined a coordinated strategy against hybrid threats combining cyber activities, disinformation operations, and destabilization campaigns, delivered the announcement.
The sanctions list includes Russian Telegram microblogging channel Rybar and co-owner Mikhail Sergeevich Zvinchuk, identified by British authorities as influential actors in Russian information operations.
Rybar, with a Telegram audience of millions, published battlefield updates and specific narratives aligned with Kremlin objectives throughout the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to multiple intelligence assessments.
The United Kingdom also sanctioned the Foundation for the Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots Living Abroad, known internationally as Pravfond.
Note that Estonian intelligence previously identified Pravfond as a front organization linked to the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.
Another sanctioned Russian entity is the Center for Geopolitical Expertise, operated by far-right theorist Aleksandr Dugin.
British officials stated that the center contributed to influence operations targeting European public opinion, including amplified narratives concerning Ukraine and coordinated support for fringe political movements viewed as beneficial to Russian strategic aims.
Two Chinese firms, i-Soon and Integrity Technology Group, were included due to large-scale cyber activities assessed as harmful to the United Kingdom and allied governments.
Officials cited evidence of indiscriminate network intrusions, data exfiltration attempts, and coordinated penetration efforts targeting critical national infrastructure and democratic institutions across Europe and North America.
Foreign Secretary Cooper stated that the sanctioned actors used advanced techniques, including generative artificial intelligence and manipulated video content, to disrupt elections and weaken public trust.
Evidence cited by British authorities included fake websites and political advertisements deployed during elections in Moldova, and fabricated videos targeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his spouse.
The announcement coincided with the centenary commemoration of the Locarno Treaties, a symbolic moment used by Cooper to emphasize European unity against hybrid threats.
UK officials asserted that coordinated sanctions across democratic partners are necessary to defend national infrastructure, safeguard electoral systems, and reinforce international support for Ukraine during continued Russian aggression.
The sanctions are part of a broader strategy to deter malign influence operations conducted by state-linked actors. The measures restrict financial access, freeze assets, and limit international activity.
Further designations may follow as information warfare campaigns evolve and cross-border coordination among hostile actors expands.