Hegseth neither canceled nor delayed cyber operations on malicious Russian targets, nor did there be any halt orders from its priorities, officials who were granted anonymity to discuss internal decisions.
The denials came after Record, a cybersecurity publication, and reported that Hegses ordered a US cyber order to stop from all plans against Russia, including offensive digital actions. The story follows the Washington Post and the New York Times, followed by a unique confirmation from an unknown official.
The reported suspension sparked an angry response from Democrats, including Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer. He said the Trump administration “continues to launch cyber operations and launches ransomware attacks on critical American infrastructure.”
Reports about the suspension said it occurred Friday before Trump and Zelensky were openly colliding in their oval offices. It was characterized as an effort to ensure Russia agreed to negotiations to end the Ukrainian conflict.
Asked about previous reports of the operation halt, the Pentagon declined to comment, but said Hegses had no greater priorities than US military safety.
US Cyber Command oversees 135 “Cyber Mission Force” teams, or “It’s Action Arm,” the Command says on its website. The units involved in the attack business are cyber combat mission teams.
Separately, Trump ordered a pause on all military aid to Ukraine and asked that Trump not identify any private deliberations until he determines that the country’s leader would demonstrate a goodwilled commitment to peace.
Officials said all US military equipment that is currently not in Ukraine will be suspended, including weapons in transport of aircraft and ships and waiting in Polish transport areas.
RHM/