The Wiretap: How Trump, Hegseth And DOGE Are Undermining Ukrainian Security

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Last week, the Trump administration took a series of actions that stunned world leaders and left many wondering about the future of U.S. involvement in Ukraine and Russia. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a pause on cyberattacks against Russian targets, which may have been a surprise even for some in the intelligence community.

According to sources at two defense department contractors, Hegseth's order may only affect military operations under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, not intelligence operations. This means that the military might be scaling back its online activities against Russia, but the intelligence agencies may continue their efforts against the country.

However, this move has been interpreted by many as a sign that the Trump administration is backing off aggression against Russia and amping up its rhetoric against Ukraine and President Zelensky. This could have significant implications for Ukrainian security and the broader global situation.

A review of contracts cancelled by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) shows that a significant amount of U.S.-backed work in Ukraine has already come to an end. Projects worth $90 million, $256 million, and $8.5 million have been scrapped, including efforts to reduce corruption in Ukraine, support a democratic recovery, and get vital security information to USAID partners on the ground.

While there's still some uncertainty around Hegseth's order, it's clear that the Trump administration is taking a more cautious approach to dealing with Russia. But what does this mean for Ukrainian security?

The Scope of the Problem

One report claimed that the DHS Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) had been told not to focus as much on Russia, but CISA refuted this claim in a public statement. Sources at CISA also said they hadn't heard anything about any new guidance on Russia.

This raises questions about whether there's a broader strategy shift underway when it comes to dealing with Russian cyberattacks. One thing is certain: the optics indicate a more pro-Russia strategy under the current administration than has been seen from any White House in recent memory.

The Real Impact

But what does this mean for Ukrainian security? Will the U.S. continue to provide support and protection to the country, or will it take a step back?

We spoke to sources at two defense department contractors, who told us that they believe little will change in terms of military operations against Russia. However, there may be some nuance to Hegseth's order that hasn't been fully explored yet.

The Rise of AI-Generated Deepfakes

In other news, the spread of AI-generated explicit images is being witnessed by America's youth. According to new research from child protection nonprofit Thorn, one in eight Americans under the age of 18 personally know someone who's had an AI-generated pornographic deepfake made of them.

One in 17 teens has been directly victimized by an AI deepfake. This is a staggering number, and it highlights the need for greater awareness and action to combat this growing threat.

Other News

Russian national Aleksei Andriunin was extradited from Portugal to the U.S. this week, charged with manipulating cryptocurrency markets on behalf of industry clients.

Aleksei developed code to "wash trade" cryptocurrencies, artificially inflating trading volume and giving a boost to a given currency. He made millions in the process, according to the Justice Department.

Microsoft filed a lawsuit against four individuals who've been misusing its generative AI tools. The tech giant said the four were part of a hacking group dubbed Storm-2139, which used passwords leaked online to gain access to its AI tools and resold access to other malicious actors.

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