Hegseth paused cyber ops against Russia as part of negotiations, GOP Rep. Bacon confirms

U.S. Cyber Command paused offensive operations aimed at Russia for a day earlier this year as a negotiating tactic, House Armed Services Committee cyber subcommittee Chair Don Bacon (R-Neb.) confirmed Friday.

During a subcommittee hearing on the Pentagon’s cyber posture, Bacon referenced reports that emerged in late February suggesting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had directed Cyber Command to stand down from planning on all matters regarding Russia, including offensive actions.

The report sparked confusion and fury among Democratic lawmakers and European leaders, who viewed the move as a capitulation toward Russia during a time of tense negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. The Pentagon at the time denied that any stand-down order was made.

Read more at POLITICO