**US Halts Cyber Operations Against Russia**
The US has temporarily stopped its cyber attacks against Russia, officials say. This comes as the country‘s President, Donald Trump, tries to make a deal with Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
The reason for this change is not clear. The US Department of Defense did not comment on this matter.
This decision was made before a recent argument between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. Since returning to office, Trump has changed his approach towards Russia. He now wants to make a deal with them to end the war in Ukraine.
**Softening US Position Towards Russia**
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, Trump has softened the American position towards Moscow. He has sided with Russia during recent votes at the United Nations related to the war.
However, Trump has also labelled Zelensky a dictator and accused him of “gambling with World War Three” during their argument at the White House.
**Impact on Cyber Operations**
The halt in US cyber operations against Russia was given by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. This means that hundreds or thousands of personnel may be affected. The US had been using cyber attacks to strengthen Ukraine’s digital defences.
A senior defence department official said they would not comment on this matter due to operation concerns. However, they added that the safety of all personnel is a top priority.
**Reactions from Other Leaders**
Some leaders have spoken out against Trump’s decision. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz acknowledged that there are different ways to get Russia to agree to a deal. However, he denied that this was a policy change.
Senior Democrat Chuck Schumer called the move “a critical strategic mistake”. He said that Trump is giving Russia “a free pass” by not taking action against their cyber operations and ransomware attacks.
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