UK made to wait for access to American AI

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, September 26, 2026

The White House has asked OpenAI and Anthropic to delay sharing their latest AI models with the UK’s AI Security Institute until they undergo testing and approval by the US government. This pause could slow the UK’s ability to assess new AI technologies and affects the dynamics of international cooperation on AI security and regulation.

The White House has requested that leading American artificial intelligence companies OpenAI and Anthropic delay providing their latest AI models to the United Kingdom’s AI Security Institute (AISI) until they have been tested and cleared by the US government. This move comes from the Office of the National Cyber Director and represents a shift in the UK’s previously valued early access to cutting-edge AI technology from the United States.

According to a senior US administration official, the decision aims to ensure that new AI systems are secure before they are shared with allied nations. The official emphasized that the United States is taking precautions to safeguard its technological assets and mitigate potential risks associated with deploying advanced AI models internationally.

Anthropic has already acted on this directive by withholding its latest Claude Mythos 5.1 model from the AISI, citing initial access restrictions limited to US-based organizations. OpenAI’s compliance status with the request has not been detailed publicly. The delay affects the pace at which the UK can evaluate and integrate new AI developments from these major US companies.

The UK’s AI Security Institute has been at the forefront of monitoring and regulating emerging AI technologies to ensure they meet safety and ethical standards. The postponement of access could influence the UK’s ability to maintain a leading role in AI governance and oversight, especially as the global race to develop and deploy AI intensifies.

While the US government prioritizes domestic security concerns, the move underscores the complex dynamics between allied countries in balancing cooperation on technological innovation with national security considerations. It also highlights the challenges faced by regulatory bodies in keeping pace with the rapid advancements of AI capabilities.

No further details have been provided about the timeline for US testing or when American companies might resume sharing models with the UK. Observers note that the situation reflects growing scrutiny and strategic caution over access to frontier AI technologies amid broader discussions on their societal impact and regulatory frameworks.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.