Executive Summary

In May and June 2026, London launched the most comprehensive sanctions effort the UK has undertaken against Russia and Iran in a single period. Targeting several Moscow- and Tehran-linked individuals and entities involved in hybrid warfare infrastructure, information operations, migrant exploitation networks, drone supply chains, and illicit financial systems. However, the same period saw the UK make compromises on these punitive measures due to energy security concerns.

Against Iran, the designations are notable for the targeted network’s multinational composition and its documented involvement in assassinations of Iranian dissidents. However, the delayed UK response in some cases raises questions about both the pace of post-Brexit sanctions coordination and the practical effectiveness of designations alone as a disruptive tool.

This report assesses the scope and implications of the sanctions, examining the specific networks, financial infrastructure, and individuals targeted and evaluating the likely effectiveness of these measures. It also examines the growing tension between the UK’s stated commitment to maintaining sanctions pressure on Russia and the emerging compromises driven by energy security concerns.