Regarding the Suspension of Offensive Cyber Operations Against Russia

I am writing to express my concerns about the recent decision by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to pause U.S. Cyber Command’s offensive cyber operations against Russia. This policy shift poses significant risks to our national security and the safety of our citizens. Risks to the United States: 1. Increased Cyber Attacks on Critical Infrastructure: The suspension may embolden Russian cyber actors to intensify attacks on vital systems, such as power grids, water supplies, healthcare facilities, and financial institutions, potentially leading to widespread disruptions. 2. Escalation of Disinformation Campaigns: Without active countermeasures, Russia could amplify efforts to spread misinformation, undermining public trust in democratic processes and institutions. 3. Weakened Deterrence: Halting offensive operations may signal a reduced U.S. commitment to cyber defense, encouraging adversaries to exploit perceived vulnerabilities. 4. Economic and Financial Threats: Enhanced cyber intrusions could result in significant financial losses, affecting both individual citizens and the broader economy. 5. National Security Risks: Government and military networks may become more susceptible to espionage or sabotage, compromising sensitive information and defense capabilities. 6. Rise in Ransomware Attacks: The absence of offensive deterrents could lead to an increase in ransomware incidents targeting businesses, healthcare providers, and local governments. 7. Election Security Vulnerabilities: With the 2024 elections approaching, reduced cyber operations could leave electoral systems more exposed to foreign interference. Flaws in the Current Policy Based on Defense Principles: • Active Defense: A robust cybersecurity strategy requires both defensive and offensive measures to deter adversaries effectively. The current pause undermines this balance, potentially compromising our cyber defense posture. • Defense in Depth: This principle advocates for multiple layers of security controls. By halting offensive operations, we remove a critical layer, increasing the likelihood of successful cyber attacks against our nation. • Zero Trust Model: Assuming that threats could exist both outside and inside the network, continuous verification is essential. The suspension may hinder our ability to proactively identify and neutralize threats before they infiltrate our systems. I urge you to reconsider this policy and reinstate offensive cyber operations against Russia to protect our nation’s security and uphold the integrity of our critical infrastructure. Thank you for your attention to this.