RUSI launches Crypto and International Security Task Force

The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) has launched a Crypto and International Security Task Force to examine how cryptoassets impact global security. Supported by funding from Chainalysis, the initiative will bring together government officials, law enforcement, regulatory authorities, researchers, and private sector experts.

The task force aims to address urgent threats, including the use of cryptocurrency for organized crime, terrorist financing, sanctions evasion, and political interference. Researchers noted a significant rise in illicit activity, estimating that sanctioned entities received $104 billion in crypto during 2025, representing a 694% year-on-year increase. The group also highlighted how generative AI is accelerating malicious activities and how nation-states are increasingly utilizing illicit crypto supply chains.

Work will focus on three primary areas: mapping illicit exploitation methods, assessing regulatory and law enforcement tools to counter these threats, and exploring legitimate applications for blockchain analytics in humanitarian and civil society efforts. The task force will hold a series of meetings and a capstone conference to provide practical recommendations to policymakers and industry participants.