Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered U.S. Cyber Command to halt offensive cyber operations and information operations against Russia. The order was given to Air Force Gen. Tim Haugh in late February, but the duration of the halt is unclear. The decision was made with the safety of the Warfighter in mind, according to a U.S. defense official. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has stated that their mission to defend against cyber threats, including from Russia, remains unchanged. President Donald Trump’s recent efforts to re-establish diplomatic channels with Russia may have influenced this decision.
The pause in offensive cyber operations has been criticized by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who sees it as an attempt by Trump to earn Putin’s favor. The U.S. intelligence community has long viewed Russia as a significant cyber threat, with capabilities to target critical infrastructure and influence other countries’ decisions. Russia has intensified its cyber operations, particularly targeting Ukraine and NATO countries, as highlighted by a recent report from Microsoft.
Despite the pause in offensive cyber operations, U.S. officials continue to engage in peace talks with Russia to end the war in Ukraine. A recent clash between Trump, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, and Vice President JD Vance delayed the signing of an agreement that would have granted the U.S. ownership in Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals. Hegseth’s order to halt offensive cyber operations against Russia may impact the ongoing conflict and diplomatic efforts between the two countries.
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