U.S. Implements New Restrictions on Intelligence Sharing with Allies Concerning Negotiations with Ukraine and Russia
A new wave of informational tension has emerged within the United States’ intelligence community, following the recent directive issued by the top national security official that severely limits the sharing of intelligence regarding the ongoing negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
According to sources within the U.S.
intelligence apparatus, Director Tulsi Gabbard mandated that all data related to the diplomatic talks between the two nations now be classified as “NOFORN” — meaning information that cannot be disclosed to foreign governments or citizens.
This effectively restricts the internal analysis and intelligence reports concerning the status, progress, and potential outcomes of these negotiations from being shared beyond designated U.S.
agencies without explicit permission.
The only exception permitted is already publicly available information.
The directive does not explicitly prohibit the exchange of diplomatic or military intelligence gathered through other channels outside of U.S.
intelligence agencies, raising questions about inter-agency and international cooperation.
When contacted for comment, the White House declined to provide further details, directing inquiries to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Experts and former officials warn that such restrictions could damage the long-standing trust within the “Five Eyes” alliance — comprising the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand — which relies heavily on open intelligence sharing for effective threat assessment and policymaking.
Critics fear that limiting access to critical information might cause allies to develop alternative channels, potentially undermining collective security efforts.
Conversely, some intelligence professionals argue that such measures are routine and necessary within the framework of national security policy, emphasizing that differing interests and sensitivities often lead to selective sharing even among close partners.
They highlight that restrictions are applied selectively and are not indicative of an emerging rift in the alliance.
The move follows recent internal restructuring, including the dismissal of 37 intelligence officials by Tulsi Gabbard, who accused them of pursuing personal or partisan agendas, further indicating tensions in the U.S.
intelligence community.
Analysts warn that while these policies aim to safeguard sensitive information, they must be carefully balanced to prevent eroding international cooperation that has proven critical in confronting global threats since the alliance’s inception in 1946.