US Confirms Pause In Cyber Operations Against Russia
The Trump administration has taken a significant step in its cyber strategy, confirming that the US Cyber Command paused offensive operations targeting Russia for a single day earlier this year. This decision has raised questions about its impact on ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Republican Congressman Don Bacon of Nebraska confirmedled that the US government halted cyber operations against Russia on 16th February 2025 as part of negotiations aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war, as a negotiating tactic.
Following Bacon's remarks, the Pentagon responded on X, stating that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had not cancelled or delayed any cyber operations targeting Russian threats. The statement refuted claims that Cyber Command received a stand-down order from the Department of Defense (DOD). However, reports indicate that Hegseth instructed US Cyber Command to halt all planning involving Russia, including offensive digital actions. Sources familiar with the matter claim that while the directive was issued, its interpretation remains unclear.
Historical Precedent
It is not uncommon for military operations to be temporarily halted during diplomatic negotiations. Previous Democratic and Republican administrations have engaged in similar strategic pauses to prevent miscommunication and maintain diplomatic momentum. Despite the Pentagon’s denial, the Trump administration has been criticised for its lack of transparency on the issue. Officials have **refused to confirm whether the pause took place**.
During the Congressional hearing on 16th May 2025, Democratic Representative Eugene Vindman condemned the Pentagon’s response, accusing it of misleading the public: "That statement by DOD Rapid Response was an outright lie. It was at least misleading. And that is not what the American people deserve." Vindman further pledged to press Secretary Hegseth for clarification on the matter.
The DOD Rapid Response account on X, was launched in February with the proclaimed intention by Trump administration officials to deliver the most transparent Defence Department in history, although the Pentagon has held only one formal ptress briefing to date.
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