The directive, which came from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, instructed U.S. Cyber Command to cease cyber operations targeting Russia, according to reports. This decision follows President Trump’s recent televised confrontation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House, where tensions flared over Ukraine’s handling of the war. Since retaking office, Trump has adopted a softer stance toward Moscow, aiming to broker a peace deal after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago.
The administration’s diplomatic realignment has included siding with Russia in United Nations votes related to the war, as well as Trump’s statements that echo Moscow’s justifications for its military actions. He has also labeled Zelensky a dictator, accusing the Ukrainian leader of risking World War Three during their Oval Office exchange.
The halt in U.S. cyber operations has raised concerns about America’s ability to counter Russian hacking, election interference, and sabotage efforts, which have targeted Western nations supporting Ukraine. Reports suggest that hundreds or thousands of cybersecurity personnel could be impacted by the policy shift, including those working to bolster Ukraine’s digital defenses.
While the administration has not publicly confirmed a policy shift, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz acknowledged that a mix of diplomatic incentives and deterrents was being used to push for a resolution to the war. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration’s approach, arguing that negotiations require avoiding direct confrontation with Moscow.
However, critics—including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer—have condemned the move, calling it a “critical strategic mistake.” Schumer warned that pausing cyber operations effectively gives Putin a free pass to continue launching ransomware attacks and digital warfare against critical American infrastructure.
As diplomatic talks progress and Trump prepares for a potential meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the suspension of cyber operations adds another layer of uncertainty to U.S. foreign policy, cybersecurity strategy, and the future of Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression.
Source: BBC
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