NEWS
Olivia Allinson co-authors RUSI Journal article on illicit financing of hybrid threats
Olivia Allinson and Oksana Ihnatenko examine how Russia and other hostile actors use illicit financial networks to fund hybrid warfare, including physical sabotage, cyberattacks and disinformation. Published in the RUSI Journal, their article explores how existing anti-money laundering frameworks could help identify and disrupt these activities. Drawing on examples from Ukraine and across Europe, the authors propose strengthening international cooperation, expanding Financial Action Task Force (FATF) evaluations to account for state threats and improving oversight of cryptocurrency, cross-border transactions and money mule networks. They call for a more coordinated response to the financial mechanisms underpinning hybrid threats.
When history becomes a tool of state influence
States are increasingly using the past to shape the present. New research by Matthew Redhead (RUSI) examines how historical narratives, archival material and reputations can be manipulated as part of wider information and influence operations. The briefing explores tactics ranging from selective archival releases and forgeries to historical fiction, film and emerging technologies such as generative AI and deepfakes, and considers what this means for information integrity and the resilience of democratic societies.
Researcher contributes to Hybrid CoE handbook on Russian threats
Eliza Lockhart of RUSI has contributed to a new Hybrid CoE handbook examining how Russia uses non-state actors across hybrid threat operations, including sabotage, disinformation and cyber activity. The handbook provides an overview of Russia’s approach and its implications for responding to hybrid threats.
SOC ACE researchers contribute expert perspectives on organised crime and illicit trade
Research by Dr Alexander Kupatadze and Dr Erica Marat into changing patterns of serious crime and organised criminal activity across Eastern Europe and Central Asia has been covered by The New Voice of Ukraine. Their research examines how the war in Ukraine, sanctions, disrupted trade routes and population displacement are reshaping illicit markets and criminal networks across the region. The findings form part of the wider SOC ACE project, Exploring the Consequences of Organised Crime and Illegal Trade Displacement on Eurasia, which investigates how conflict and economic disruption are creating new opportunities and challenges for organised crime.