US Halts Sharing Battlefield Intelligence with Ukraine

WASHINGTON — The United States has temporarily halted its intelligence sharing with Ukraine, suspending a crucial flow of information used by the war-ravaged nation to combat Russian forces. However, officials from the Trump administration suggested on Wednesday that positive discussions between Washington and Kyiv could result in the resumption of this exchange soon.

Intelligence regarding Russia’s plans and military maneuvers has been vital for Ukraine’s defense, displaying significant support from the U.S. and its Western partners. This break in information sharing follows President Trump’s decision to suspend military aid to Ukraine, showcasing how he has reshaped America’s alliances.

“We are re-evaluating all facets of this relationship,” stated National Security Adviser Mike Waltz on Wednesday. His remarks imply that this decision is intertwined with broader negotiations between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy aimed at establishing a peace agreement with Russia. It’s anticipated that intelligence might soon resume flowing back to Ukraine.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe described the stoppage as a “pause,” noting it followed an unsuccessful Oval Office meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy. Ratcliffe emphasized that Trump wanted assurance from Zelenskyy regarding his commitment to peace.

“Once progress is made on the military and intelligence fronts, this temporary halt will likely be lifted, allowing us to continue our collaborative efforts with Ukraine,” Ratcliffe commented.

U.S. intelligence is indispensable for Ukraine, particularly for tracking Russian troop progressions and pinpointing targets. Ukraine uses this data to operate U.S.-provided High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and the U.S. Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).

Along with other allies, U.S. intelligence aids Ukraine in preparing for Russian offensives, providing critical insights that initially helped Ukraine counter Russian aims for a swift victory in the ongoing conflict.

The CIA declined to comment on changes related to intelligence sharing. Waltz noted on Fox News Channel that Ukraine might soon receive U.S. intelligence once Zelenskyy’s commitment to talks under Trump’s terms is evident.

“Should we solidify these negotiations and introduce confidence-building measures, the president might reconsider and potentially lift this pause,” he added. “Both sides must genuinely negotiate towards a partial, eventually permanent, peace.”

These steps by the new administration have disappointed European leaders and Democrats in Washington, who argue that Trump is denying a crucial ally the support needed to face Russia.

The intelligence exchange has saved Ukrainian lives, according to U.S. Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut, the highest-ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee.

“Withholding crucial intelligence from Ukrainians fighting for their lives is indefensible,” Himes argued.

Ukrainian officials chose not to comment on Wednesday regarding their intelligence-sharing arrangement with Washington. The CIA also opted not to provide answers.

It’s uncertain whether this U.S. suspension impacts Ukraine’s intelligence exchanges with other Western nations, including Canada’s role in the Five Eyes coalition with the U.S., U.K., Australia, and New Zealand.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson, Dave Pares, did not confirm whether Britain continues to share U.S.-derived intelligence with Ukraine.

He noted that Britain remains committed to empowering Ukraine across various support avenues, especially defense and security, maintaining that their position has not shifted.