US CUTS OFF INTELLIGENCE SHARING WITH UKRAINE, FT REPORTS

Wed 05 March 2025:

The United States has cut off intelligence-sharing with Kyiv in a move that could seriously hamper the Ukrainian military’s ability to target Russian forces, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday, citing officials familiar with the matter.

This decision, confirmed by various sources including the White House National Security Adviser and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, follows a tense meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office the previous week. The move comes on the heels of the U.S. suspending military aid to Ukraine, signaling a broader reevaluation of the U.S.-Ukraine relationship under the Trump administration.

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What It Means

Intelligence sharing between the U.S. and Ukraine has been a cornerstone of Kyiv’s military efforts since Russia’s invasion escalated in 2022. The U.S. provided critical, real-time data that enabled Ukraine to identify and strike Russian military targets, including with advanced weapons like Storm Shadow and ATACMS missiles. This intelligence also supported Ukraine’s early warning systems against Russian missile and drone attacks on its cities and infrastructure. Cutting off this flow of information could severely limit Ukraine’s ability to conduct precise, long-range strikes and defend against Russian aggression, potentially weakening its position on the battlefield.

Why It Happened

The decision appears tied to diplomatic tensions and strategic priorities. After a public fallout during the Oval Office meeting, President Trump reportedly questioned Zelensky’s commitment to peace negotiations with Russia. The Trump administration seems to be using the suspension of intelligence and military aid as leverage to pressure Ukraine into aligning with U.S.-led peace initiatives or concessions in talks with Russia. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz suggested on Fox News that the pause could be lifted if negotiations progress and “confidence-building measures” are implemented, indicating a temporary but conditional measure to force Kyiv to the negotiating table.

Broader Implications

For Ukraine: Losing U.S. intelligence could hamper Kyiv’s deep-strike capabilities and overall war effort, especially as Russian forces continue their advance. Ukrainian attacks on Russian supply lines and territory have relied heavily on this support.
For U.S. Allies: The U.S. has reportedly blocked allies, like the UK, from sharing American-sourced intelligence with Ukraine, though some allies may still provide their own intelligence. This could strain coordination among Ukraine’s supporters.
For U.S. Policy: The move reflects a shift in the Trump administration’s approach, prioritizing deal-making over sustained military backing, a stark contrast to previous U.S. policy since 2022.

While some sources suggest the cutoff might be partial or temporary, with intelligence still flowing to allies like the UK, the immediate impact on Ukraine’s military operations could be significant. The situation remains fluid, with potential for resumption if diplomatic conditions align with U.S. goals.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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