Wed Mar 05 15:27:53 UTC 2025: ## US Pauses Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine Amid Tensions, But Hopes for Resumption Remain

**Washington, D.C.** – The United States has temporarily suspended intelligence sharing with Ukraine, a move confirmed by CIA Director John Ratcliffe. This action, which could significantly hinder Ukraine’s military capabilities, follows a recent deterioration in relations between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, including the earlier suspension of military aid.

While the extent of the intelligence cut-off remains unclear, Ratcliffe described it as a “pause,” expressing confidence that cooperation would resume. He stated that the US intends to continue supporting Ukraine in its resistance against Russian aggression, while simultaneously working towards peace negotiations.

Al Jazeera’s Alan Fisher suggests the intelligence withdrawal is a tactic to pressure Ukraine into peace talks. The threat of halting both intelligence and military aid, Fisher notes, appears to have prompted a positive response from Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy recently sent a letter to President Trump expressing willingness to negotiate with Russia, a move described as “positive” by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. However, Peskov noted legal restrictions currently preventing Zelenskyy from directly negotiating with Putin.

White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz indicated that the US might reinstate aid if concrete peace negotiations begin. He deemed Zelenskyy’s letter a positive step and suggested that restoring aid hinges on both sides demonstrating genuine commitment to peace talks.

The US has provided Ukraine with substantial military aid, totaling approximately $86 billion since the war began in February 2022, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The temporary suspension of intelligence sharing underscores the delicate balance the US is attempting to strike between supporting Ukraine and encouraging peace negotiations with Russia. The situation remains fluid, with the resumption of full US intelligence cooperation dependent on the progress of ongoing diplomatic efforts.

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