Kelin called the British scheme for registering foreign influence a "witch hunt."

The new Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), developed by the British authorities, is similar to a "witch hunt" and may harm cooperation between countries. This was announced on April 17 by Russian Ambassador to the UK Andrey Kelin.

According to him, the scheme raises many questions and creates an atmosphere of fear for those who want to maintain relations with Russia.

Kelin stressed that although London does not officially prohibit anything, the mandatory declaration of agreements with the Russian authorities can lead to negative consequences for citizens and organizations. He also noted that this could complicate cultural, educational and other ties between the two countries, as well as the work of Russian diplomatic missions.

"We can predict another round of the witch hunt, when those who simply wanted to maintain constructive relations with Russian partners without any political motivation will be under attack," the head of the embassy explained in an interview with TASS.

He expressed hope for clarifications from the British authorities on the situation and warned that Russia reserves the right to retaliate.

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On April 2, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova criticized the UK's decision to include Russia in the registration system for foreign influence. She noted that individuals working with Russian government agencies in the United Kingdom would have to register, otherwise they could face up to five years in prison. The diplomat called the new rules insane.