The US government has halted coordinated measures against Russian sabotage, disinformation, and cyber attacks. This move is seen as a reflection of the closeness between Trump and Putin, significantly reducing pressure on Moscow.

Several of the US national security agencies have stopped their efforts to halt coordinated measures against Russian sabotage, disinformation, and cyber attacks, according to Reuters. This situation is considered a reflection of the closeness between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, leading to a significant reduction in pressure on Moscow.

BIDEN HAD GIVEN ORDERS Former President Joe Biden had instructed the national security team last year to establish working groups to monitor the Russian threat. US intelligence had warned that Russia was escalating a covert war against Western countries. Following this intelligence, at least seven national security agencies were established to work with European allies to thwart conspiracies targeting Europe and the US.

EFFORTS COME TO A HALT Former US officials stated that before President Donald Trump took office, Biden officials briefed the incoming administration about their efforts. However, since Trump took office on January 20, current and former officials, speaking to Reuters, stated that most of the efforts had come to a halt.

DISREGARD FOR INTELLIGENCE WARNINGS Some officials involved in the working groups expressed concerns about the Trump administration deprioritizing the issue despite intelligence warnings. The FBI halted efforts to resist foreign adversaries meddling in US elections, including Russia, last month. The Department of Homeland Security put staff working on this issue on leave. The Department of Justice also disbanded a team that seized Russian oligarchs’ assets. It is unclear to what extent the US has shared intelligence on the sabotage campaign with European allies.