National Security Adviser Mike Waltz confirms the US has paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine, amidst a backdrop of strained relations and uncertainty over military aid.
US Halts Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine Amidst Growing Tensions
US Halts Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine Amidst Growing Tensions
Concerns Rise Over Future US Support for Ukraine as Intelligence Collaboration Suspended
The US government has confirmed a pause in intelligence sharing with Ukraine, leading to heightened concerns regarding the future of US support for the besieged nation. On Wednesday, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stated, "We have, we have taken a step back," when asked about the suspension of intelligence cooperation. This pause follows a dramatic shift in relations after Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky had a contentious meeting with President Donald Trump, which resulted in a temporary halt to military aid to Kyiv.
In light of this development, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a forthcoming meeting of European military leaders in Paris and emphasized the need for Europe to prepare to act independently of US support. "I want to believe the US will stay at our side, but we must be ready if that is not the case," Macron remarked, underscoring the urgency for Europe to bolster its defense spending.
The US has been a critical source of intelligence for Ukraine since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Factors behind the pause remain unclear, with CIA Director John Ratcliffe also confirming the halt, citing questions about Zelensky's commitment to the peace process. This has raised speculation about the potential for renewed collaboration, with Waltz suggesting that negotiations with Ukraine could lead to the resumption of military aid and intelligence sharing.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the pause in assistance, explaining that it is a matter of "reconsidering" future funding. The implications of this decision could be significant, as Ukraine has heavily relied on US intelligence support for strategic and tactical advantages in the ongoing conflict.
Former deputy assistant secretary of defense Mick Mulroy warned that cutting off intelligence could have immediate adverse effects on Ukraine's ability to defend itself, potentially incentivizing Russia to intensify its military advances. The uncertainty surrounding US support adds a complex layer to the ongoing conflict and peace negotiations.
In light of this development, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a forthcoming meeting of European military leaders in Paris and emphasized the need for Europe to prepare to act independently of US support. "I want to believe the US will stay at our side, but we must be ready if that is not the case," Macron remarked, underscoring the urgency for Europe to bolster its defense spending.
The US has been a critical source of intelligence for Ukraine since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Factors behind the pause remain unclear, with CIA Director John Ratcliffe also confirming the halt, citing questions about Zelensky's commitment to the peace process. This has raised speculation about the potential for renewed collaboration, with Waltz suggesting that negotiations with Ukraine could lead to the resumption of military aid and intelligence sharing.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the pause in assistance, explaining that it is a matter of "reconsidering" future funding. The implications of this decision could be significant, as Ukraine has heavily relied on US intelligence support for strategic and tactical advantages in the ongoing conflict.
Former deputy assistant secretary of defense Mick Mulroy warned that cutting off intelligence could have immediate adverse effects on Ukraine's ability to defend itself, potentially incentivizing Russia to intensify its military advances. The uncertainty surrounding US support adds a complex layer to the ongoing conflict and peace negotiations.
