Every Friday, the Russian Ministry of Justice updates its Register of Foreign Agents, listing individuals and organizations accused of receiving foreign support while engaging in political activities. On Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026, the Libertarian Party of Russia (LPR) and 24 of its members were added to this list.

The registry describes the LPR as an unincorporated public association that spread materials from other "foreign agents" and disseminated "unreliable information" about Russia's electoral system and government policies. According to Russian news agency Interfax, the LPR has been accused of opposing the war in Ukraine and calling for violations of Russia's territorial integrity.

Being labeled a "foreign agent" effectively prohibits the party from organizing events or participating in elections, bringing its political activity to a halt. The LPR expressed skepticism about overturning these restrictions through legal channels.

In a statement to Reason, the LPR indicated that the designation was likely triggered by the Russian government's February decision to declare the International Alliance of Libertarian Parties (IALP) an "undesirable organization." Although the LPR had no ties to the IALP and publicly distanced itself from the group, the party believes this move signaled that libertarians should cease their advocacy for rights and freedoms in Russia.

Amendments to the foreign agent law adopted in 2022 expanded its scope to include media organizations and individuals considered to be "under foreign influence," even if they do not receive foreign funding. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty cited the Ministry of Justice stating that only 4 percent of those added to the register in 2025 were designated based on foreign funding.

The LPR condemned the designation, stating, "As advocates of individual liberty, freedom of speech, and freedom of association, all of which are enshrined in the Constitution of the Russian Federation, we condemn any attempts to exert pressure on our fellow party members, including the imposition of absurd statuses that have no legal basis, no connection to physical reality or common sense, and that contradict the country's fundamental law."

Several party members left Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Among them was Matsapulina, who fled after being accused of "telephone terrorism" due to her participation in anti-war protests.

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