RU — Country Profile

Russia

26TOTAL
13OFFICIAL SOURCES
16TOPIC AREAS
Law / Act10
Policy / Guidance1
National Strategy4
International Agreement2
Other9
Agentic AiComputeCybersecurityData Privacy & ProtectionDefense & National SecurityDefense & SecurityEducation & TrainingGenerative AIHealth & Life SciencesHuman Rights & EthicsInfrastructure & HardwareLiability & AccountabilityLogistics & InfrastructureNational StrategyOnline Safety & Child ProtectionSandbox
Law / Act✓ Official

Ministry of Digital Development proposes draft federal AI law

Russia's Ministry of Digital Development has drafted a sweeping federal AI regulation law, set to take effect on 1 September 2027, requiring all stages of AI model development and training to occur within the country. The bill adopts a risk-based approach with requirements scaled to the impact of AI systems on human life and society, and introduces concepts of sovereign, national, and trusted AI models. Citizens will have the right to challenge AI-driven decisions by government agencies and state-owned companies through a pre-trial procedure and may seek compensation for harm caused. Developers must eliminate discriminatory algorithms and prevent illegal content generation, and all AI-generated audio-visual materials must carry a warning label that large social networks are obliged to verify or apply themselves. The law also targets foreign AI platforms — including ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini — which could be blocked or restricted if they fail to comply with data localisation requirements mandating that Russian user data be stored on servers within the country for three years; Western technology companies have historically resisted such requirements. Open-source foreign models such as China's Qwen and DeepSeek may be permitted to operate within closed systems on Russian infrastructure, since user data would remain onshore. The framework is designed to advance Russia's goal of an independent internet free from outside influence while favouring domestic AI developers such as Sberbank and Yandex.

18 March 2026Human Rights & EthicsLiability & AccountabilityInfrastructure & Hardware
↗ Link availableFull text
Other

Russia may mandate domestic AI on devices

It is reported that The Russian government is considering a proposal to mandate the pre-installation of domestic AI systems on smartphones and other electronic devices to enhance the country's technological sovereignty. This initiative, part of a draft law on AI regulation, is being finalized by the Ministry of Digital Development and is expected to be submitted for government approval by the end of February 2026. The plan aims to ensure users have immediate access to Russian-developed digital services, including marketplaces, browsers, antivirus software, public service platforms, and large language models. While the proposal is seen as a strategic move to bolster technological independence, experts caution that mandatory pre-installation should be balanced to avoid overburdening electronics manufacturers.

11 February 2026Logistics & InfrastructureComputeInfrastructure & Hardware
↗ Link available
Other✓ Official

Russia plans to establish total control over IT sector, according to Ukraine intelligence

According to intelligence from the Foreign Intelligence Office of Ukraine, Russia's government has announced plans to expand state oversight of Russia's digital environment, including AI technologies, by preparing a new edition of the Information Security Doctrine. This updated doctrine aims to strengthen information sovereignty by classifying Western digital technologies—such as mobile devices, satellite internet services like Starlink, email services, and IT solutions from Western companies—as systemic threats and instruments of destructive influence. The Kremlin intends to control the digital space and personal devices at all stages, potentially moving towards an internet 'white list' model that grants access only to state-approved resources, alongside enhancing surveillance tools like facial recognition systems. In 2025, Russia's deliberate network shutdowns totaled 37,100 hours, highlighting the systemic nature of these digital restrictions.

4 February 2026Logistics & Infrastructure
↗ Link available
Other

Russian State Duma Speaker proposes studying China's AI regulation practices for legislative harmonization

It is reported that the Speaker of the Russian State Duma, Vyacheslav Volodin, has proposed a motion for the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Parliamentary Assembly to closely study China's legislative practices in regulating AI, noting that China "has done a lot" to protect its sovereignty and citizens from destructive content, and suggesting this research is crucial for harmonizing member states' laws to address new technological challenges and opportunities without harming children, people, or the state. The proposal underscores a growing interest among former Soviet-bloc nations in adopting a state-centric, control-oriented model for AI governance.

9 December 2025Online Safety & Child ProtectionDefense & National Security
↗ Link available
Other

Russia moves forward with a nationwide plan for generative AI

It is reported that Russia is advancing a comprehensive plan to integrate generative AI across public administration and key economic sectors, aiming to enhance national technological capacity and sovereignty. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin outlined a framework to deploy modern AI tools regionally and industrially, emphasizing reliance on domestically developed systems over foreign platforms to ensure long-term independence. A proposal has been submitted to establish a central headquarters to oversee this initiative, setting objectives, tracking progress, and coordinating efforts across ministries and agencies. Officials view this strategy as a strategic investment to bolster national competitiveness in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, with expectations that increased use of generative AI will improve administrative efficiency, support regional development, and foster innovation across multiple sectors.

9 December 2025Generative AIDefense & National SecurityData Privacy & Protection
↗ Link available
Other✓ Official

Russia announces working group to regulate AI

The Russian Federation council committee on constitutional legislation and state building has announced the creation of a working group to develop a regulatory framework for AI. The group will include external experts and will focus on creating a legislative framework to ensure AI’s safe use in both public administration and business sectors. The group will also gather input from the Council for the Development of the Digital Economy and the Commission on Information Policy.

28 January 2025Data Privacy & ProtectionCybersecurity
↗ Link available
Law / Act✓ Official

Federal Law establishing Digital Innovation and AI in Experimental Legal Regimes enters into force

The above act has entered into force. This act broadens the scope of responsibility for damages incurred during the digital innovation testing. It provides mechanisms for tracking and identifying individuals responsible for AI-related incidents and establishes a commission to address damages caused by AI.

4 January 2025SandboxAgentic AiData Privacy & Protection
↗ Link availableFull text
National Strategy

Russia plans to form AI alliance among BRICS

It is reported that, at Russia's flagship AI conference in Moscow, Russia President Vladimir Putin said that Russia would join BRICS countries and other interested states to form a new AI Alliance Network which would include national associations and development institutions in the field of AI. Further details of this alliance network have yet to be revealed.

11 December 2024National Strategy
↗ Link available
Law / Act✓ Official

Russia passes Bill No. 512628-8

In the second reading, the State Duma has adopted the Bill establishing Digital Innovation and Artificial intelligence (AI) in Experimental Legal Regimes (Bill No. 512628-8).

19 June 2024SandboxGenerative AI
↗ Link availableFull text
Law / Act✓ Official

Russia adopts amendments to National AI strategy

The President of the Russian Federation adopted decree 124, amending the National Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) until 2030. The amendments aim to promote the development and application of AI technologies in Russia, with a focus on sectors such as healthcare, education, industry, and defence.

15 February 2024Defense & National SecurityHealth & Life Sciences
↗ Link availableFull text
Law / Act✓ Official

Russia introduces Bill establishing Digital Innovation and AI in Experimental Legal Regimes

The Bill establishing Digital Innovation and Artificial intelligence (AI) in Experimental Legal Regimes (Bill No. 512628-8) was introduced in the State Duma. The Bill aims to broaden the scope of responsibility for damages incurred during the digital innovation testing. It provides mechanisms for tracking and identifying individuals responsible for AI-related incidents and establishes a commission to address damages caused by AI.

15 December 2023SandboxData Privacy & Protection
↗ Link availableFull text
National Strategy

Russia accelerates its AI Development Program

The Russian government will accelerate key changes to the Russian National Strategy for the Development of Technologies (which sets out national projects and state programs that provide for the introduction of AI in all sectors of the economy and society) by September 1, 2023.

20 February 2023National Strategy
↗ Link available
International Agreement

Iran, Russia sign agreement to boost AI, cyber security cooperation

Iran and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in communications and information technology, focusing on areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, smart government, blockchain, fintech, regulations, and postal services. The agreement was signed in Moscow by Iran's Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Meysam Abedi, and Russia's Deputy Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media, Alexander Shoitov, following the fifth meeting of their joint working group. Both nations aim to strengthen collaboration in data transit, electronic governance, and the development of AI-based tools, leveraging their shared research and practical projects to produce higher-quality products and services.

5 December 2025CybersecurityData Privacy & Protection
↗ Link availableSecondary source
National Strategy✓ Official

UAE and Russia to enhance cooperation in applying AI in public financial management

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Russia have held their second Strategic Financial Dialogue at the UAE Ministry of Finance's headquarters in Dubai, co-chaired by UAE Minister of State for Financial Affairs Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini and Russian Minister of Finance Anton Siluanov. Among other topics, the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in applying AI to public financial management, including areas such as budgeting, payroll management, and revenue forecasting, with the aim of improving government performance.

31 October 2025National Strategy
↗ Link available
National Strategy

2025 APEC Digital and AI Ministerial Statement

At the APEC summit in Incheon, South Korea, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation adopted the 2025 Digital and AI Ministerial Statement, highlighting the role of AI in driving innovation and addressing socio-economic challenges. The statement emphasises secure and responsible adoption of AI and other digital technologies to enhance productivity, efficiency, resilience, and economic development. It encourages member economies to integrate these technologies with balanced, human-centred approaches to workforce development, education, and lifelong learning. It also promotes cooperation and information-sharing on digital policies to strengthen regional collaboration, cross-border trade, and investment, while fostering greater understanding of the benefits of emerging technologies.

4 August 2025National Strategy
↗ Link available
Other

Russia and Belarus to develop AI rooted in "traditional values"

It is reported, at an conference in Vitebsk, Belarus, State Secretary of the Union State Sergei Glazyev announced that Russia and Belarus are collaborating to create a large language model based on "traditional values", aiming to establish a sovereign AI that is trustworthy and provides objective information.

11 July 2025Generative AI
↗ Link available
International Agreement✓ Official

BRICS+ sign declaration on AI governance

Foreign Ministers from the BRICS+ countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members as of 1 January 2025, including Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates) have issued a declaration following a meeting in Rio de Janeiro, which includes commitments on AI to prioritise transparency, ethical standards, data protection, and equitable development outcomes, particularly in addressing digital and data inequalities between and within countries. The BRICS+ ministers have emphasised the importance of establishing inclusive and representative international governance for AI within the framework of the United Nations.

29 April 2025Data Privacy & ProtectionGenerative AI
↗ Link availableFull text
Other

Kazakhstan and Russia team up to boost AI and tech innovation

It is reported that Kazakhstan's Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko have met to discuss digitalization, AI, investment, and innovative development, emphasizing the importance of AI and digitalization partnerships in bilateral relations. Among other things, they noted new opportunities arising from the opening of the Alem.ai International Artificial Intelligence Center in Astana later in 2025.

4 April 2025Generative AI
↗ Link available
Other✓ Official

China and Russia announce cooperation on AI

China and Russia have issued a joint declaration announcing cooperation between both parties in AI and the creation of a working group to exchange experiences and best practices on the regulation and industrial application of AI. The parties also agreed to support cooperation among BRICS countries in developing potential in the field of AI and welcome the establishment by the Chinese side of the "China-BRICS Artificial Intelligence Development Center".

22 August 2024SandboxData Privacy & ProtectionCybersecurity
↗ Link available
Other

10 Point Development Plan (2018):

A plan released by the Russian Ministry of Defence that outlines key public-private partnerships and calls attention to key research and development steps in military AI. Its 10 points are: (1) Form an AI and Big Data Consortium, (2) Gain automation expertise, (3) Create a state system for Ai training and education, (4) Build an AI lab at the Era technopolis, (5) Establish a national centre for AI, (6) Monitor global AI development, (7) Hold AI wargames, (8) Check for AI compliance, (9) Discuss AI proposals at domestic military forums, (10) Hold an annual AI conference.

Defense & SecurityEducation & Training
↗ Link available
Law / Act✓ Official

Amendments to the National Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence in Russia (Decree no. 124) (2024):

This decree amends the National Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) until 2030. The amendments aim to promote the development and application of AI technologies in Russia, with a focus on sectors such as healthcare, education, industry, and defence. The decree lists the principles that should be followed in the development of the regulatory framework, such as security, respect for autonomy and freedom of human will, and a risk-oriented approach. The decree also states that the delegation of morally responsible decisions to AI systems should not be permissible, and the algorithms and data processing methods should undergo testing and expert assessments to ensure the risks related to bias and risks of discrimination are addressed.

Health & Life SciencesDefense & National Security
↗ Link availableFull text
Law / Act✓ Official

Federal Law establishing Digital Innovation and AI in Experimental Legal Regimes (Bill No. 512628-8) (2023):

This act broadens the scope of responsibility for damages incurred during the digital innovation testing. It provides mechanisms for tracking and identifying individuals responsible for AI-related incidents and establishes a commission to address damages caused by AI.

SandboxAgentic AiData Privacy & Protection
↗ Link availableFull text
Law / Act

Russian Law No. 258-FZ (2021):

This law establishes a regulatory sandbox for all of Russia. It aims to promote development in AI, quantum technology, big data, and robotics. To participate, entrepreneurs and organizations must submit an application to the Ministry of Economic Development for approval.

SandboxGenerative AI
↗ Link availableSecondary source
Law / Act

Russian Law No. 123-FZ (2020):

This law establishes an experimental legal regime (commonly referred to as a regulatory sandbox) in Moscow. It aims to promote innovation over the course of five years. This law also amends Russia's personal data protection law to allow for the processing of anonymized personal health data of Russian citizens.

SandboxData Privacy & ProtectionHealth & Life Sciences
↗ Link availableSecondary source
Law / Act✓ Official

Federal Law No. 34-FZ (2019):

This law, also known as the Digital Rights Law, introduces several new legal concepts, including digital rights, e-transactions, smart contracts, and big data. The law aims to enable the development of an efficient legal framework of digital economy in Russia, reflecting current digital technologies and challenges including big data and AI.

Data Privacy & ProtectionCybersecurityGenerative AI
↗ Link availableFull text
Policy / Guidance

Code of Ethics of AI (2021):

This is a uniform system of non-binding guiding principles and rules that apply to development of AI technologies (civil development only). The principles are (1) The key priority of AI technologies development is protection of the interests and rights of human beings at large and every person in particular, (2) Responsibility must be fully acknowledged when creating and using AI, (3) Humans are always responsible for the consequences of AI systems application, (4) AI technologies should be used in accordance with the intended purpose and integrated where it will benefit people, (5) Interests of AI technologies development outweigh the interests of competition, and (6) Maximum transparency and reliability of information concerning the level of AI technologies development, their capabilities and risks are crucial.

Agentic AiGenerative AIData Privacy & Protection
↗ Link available