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BREAKING: Republican warning of a "national security threat" is about Russia wanting to put a nuclear weapon into space, sources say. https://t.co/Pcqc7xRGzm pic.twitter.com/EMKuKf0N4x
— ABC News (@abc) February 14, 2024
A vague warning by the chair of the House Intelligence Committee about a "serious national security threat" Wednesday is related to Russia and space, according to three people familiar with the matter.
The U.S. has been concerned about Russia's advancement in space for years. While the people did not provide much in terms of details, one of them said the intelligence is related to Moscow's weaponization of its orbital systems.
In his statement Wednesday morning, Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) said his committee had made available the information about the national security threat and called on the administration to declassify the intelligence so officials and lawmakers could discuss the matter with allies.
House Intel chair's national security warning is about Russia’s space power - POLITICO
The White House's national security adviser and leading lawmakers on Capitol Hill sought to allay public concerns on Wednesday after the House Intelligence Committee chairman warned of a "national security threat" related to a "destabilizing foreign military capability" so serious that President Joe Biden should declassify "all information" about it.
Two sources familiar with deliberations on Capitol Hill said the intelligence has to do with Russia wanting to put a nuclear weapon into space. This is not to drop a nuclear weapon onto Earth but rather to possibly use against satellites.
Still, "it is very concerning and very sensitive," said one source, calling it "a big deal."
While not addressing the subject directly, multiple members of Congress quickly described the issue as serious without stoking public alarm.
