January 2026 Newsletter

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 January 2026 Newsletter
The Public Intelligence Project

A Message from the Public Intelligence Project

January marked a significant step forward in our mission to strengthen the integrity, security, and professionalism of diplomatic engagement within the United States. This month, Diplomatic Services of America formally incorporated the services of the Federal Diplomat Registrar, expanding our ability to understand diplomatic populations, identify emerging needs, and support those entering the United States on diplomatic visas with greater clarity and institutional coordination.

This integration represents a major advancement in how the United States manages diplomatic presence and ensures that every accredited diplomat receives the support necessary to carry out their mission effectively.

Welcome Letter from the Federal Diplomat Services Registrar

Dear Esteemed Diplomat,

On behalf of the Federal Diplomat Services Registrar, I extend my sincere gratitude for completing your registration and joining this essential platform of cooperation and coordination.

Your participation strengthens the integrity and efficiency of diplomatic engagement within the United States and across our global network of U.S. Embassies. By joining the Registrar, you help ensure a more seamless, secure, and professionally supported diplomatic experience—one that upholds the highest standards of international protocol, transparency, and mutual respect.

As Coordinator, I am committed to ensuring that every registered diplomat receives the guidance, resources, and institutional support necessary to carry out their mission with confidence and clarity. Your cooperation enables us to maintain a unified system that benefits not only your work, but the broader diplomatic community we collectively serve.

Thank you for your partnership and for contributing to a stronger, more connected diplomatic environment.

Christopher L. Fitzgerald

Research and Findings: International Diplomatic and NGO Activities

Since mid‑2025, the Public Intelligence Project has conducted extensive research into international NGOs, diplomatic organizations, and hospitality groups that operate within the diplomatic ecosystem. This work has revealed several concerning patterns that continue to inform our policy and security initiatives.

Key findings include:

• Certain foreign organizations have used the appearance of diplomatic affiliation to secure access to international events and gain entry into countries - including the United States, for individuals who would not otherwise qualify.

• Members of some NGOs have leveraged their organizational identity to raise funds for activities      unrelated to their stated mission, including ventures that fall outside legal boundaries.

• Diplomatic clubs, hospitality associations, and similar groups have, in some cases, engaged in unlawful partnerships with individuals, and U.S. government officials, contributing to networks involving unauthorized information sharing, financial crimes, narcotics trafficking, and other serious violations.

These findings underscore the importance of the Federal Diplomat Registrar and the expanded oversight mechanisms now in place.

Strengthening National Security and Diplomatic Integrity

In partnership with the Department of State, CIA, DIA, ODNI, Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and other federal agencies, the Public Intelligence Project has implemented new measures - supported by resources made available through President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” - to prevent unlawful entry into the United States through fraudulent diplomatic claims.

These measures target:

• Fraudulent diplomatic representations
• Illicit acquisition of diplomatic visas
• Abuse of official travel networks
• Activities supporting terrorist, cartel, or transnational criminal organizations

Our unified federal approach ensures that diplomatic channels remain secure, credible, and aligned with U.S. national interests.

Advancing International Dialogue and Conflict Resolution

Through expanded interagency collaboration, the Public Intelligence Project has helped establish a new platform for international dialogue with countries where diplomatic relations have historically been strained. This includes engagement with nations such as North Korea, China, Russia, Cuba, and Iran.

Working through military, diplomatic, and intelligence networks, we have partnered with foreign agencies to develop public relations initiatives designed to reintroduce key leaders, and nations to the global stage. These efforts have contributed to renewed conversations around peace, cooperation, and strategic stability.

China, in particular, has played a notable role in promoting dialogue and international cooperation, even amid criticism from nations resistant to emerging global frameworks. As a result of these initiatives, the Department of State - under the guidance of Secretary Marco Rubio, has advanced new approaches in Taiwan and Ukraine, opening pathways for unilateral trade discussions and cooperative engagements involving China, Taiwan, Ukraine, Russia, Cuba, Iran, and the United States.

These developments represent early but meaningful progress toward a more stable, and interconnected international environment.

Looking Ahead

The coming months will bring additional updates as new initiatives mature, and more information becomes available for public release. The Public Intelligence Project remains committed to transparency, collaboration, and the advancement of global diplomatic integrity.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

Christopher L. Fitzgerald
Deputy Director – CIA Labs
The Public Intelligence Project