Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has instructed U.S. Cyber Command to cease offensive cyber operations and information operations against Russia. The duration of the order is currently unknown, and the decision was made to prioritize the safety of U.S. Warfighters in all operations. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has stated that there has been no change in posture in defending against cyber threats from Russia, despite Hegseth’s order.
President Donald Trump has been working to restore diplomatic channels with Russia amid efforts to end the war in Ukraine. However, a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vice President JD Vance led to a breakdown over Zelenskyy’s criticism of Putin, delaying the signing of an agreement granting the U.S. ownership stake in Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals.
Some have criticized the decision to pause offensive cyber operations against Russia, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer accusing Trump of trying to gain favor with Putin. The Biden administration previously labeled Russia as an enduring global cyber threat, citing its cyber disruptions and targeting of critical infrastructure.
Russian cyber operations have intensified, focusing on accessing intelligence from Ukrainian warfighters and influencing elections. Microsoft highlighted these operations in its 2024 digital defense report. Despite the pause in offensive cyber operations, Russia’s cyber threat remains a concern for the U.S. and its allies.
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