U.S. Cyber Command strategically paused offensive operations targeting Russia for a brief period earlier this year, utilizing it as a negotiation tactic, confirmed House Armed Services Committee cyber subcommittee Chair Don Bacon (R-Neb.) on Friday.
The Tactical Pause
During a subcommittee hearing focusing on the Pentagon’s cyber posture, Bacon made reference to reports from late February indicating Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s directive to Cyber Command to halt all planning activities related to Russia, including offensive measures.
This report triggered confusion and outrage among Democratic lawmakers and European leaders, interpreting the move as a concession to Russia amid intense negotiations to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. The Pentagon, however, refuted any claims of a stand-down order.
Insight into the Pause
Bacon shed light on the situation, stating, “There was a one-day pause, which is customary in negotiations, that’s all I can disclose, a one-day pause.” While details of the negotiations remain undisclosed, the temporary pause likely occurred during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to the White House for discussions on a minerals agreement with President Donald Trump, which ultimately collapsed following a contentious meeting in the Oval Office.
Reactions and Responses
Representatives from both the Pentagon and Cyber Command refrained from immediate comments on Bacon’s assertion. In early March, the Department of Defense Rapid Response account affirmed that no cyber operations against hostile Russian entities were canceled or delayed, emphasizing no stand-down order was issued.
During the Friday hearing, Subcommittee member Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-Va.) referenced this tweet, labeling Bacon’s statements as “blatantly false.” Vindman emphasized the need for accountability and pledged to address this issue with the secretary when he appears before the committee.
Critical Assessments
Bacon has emerged as a vocal critic of Hegseth, particularly questioning his use of the encrypted messaging app Signal for discussing sensitive military operations in Yemen. Bacon also criticized Hegseth for the abrupt dismissal of Gen. Timothy Haugh, who oversaw Cyber Command and the National Security Agency before his removal, reportedly based on allegations presented to Trump by far-right activist Laura Loomer.
“When the secretary of defense faces the Armed Services Committee, he will have to provide explanations for these actions,” Bacon asserted regarding Haugh’s termination.
Understanding the intricacies of negotiation tactics in cyber operations is crucial for comprehending the complexities and challenges in contemporary international relations.
