US Bars Five Eyes From Russia-Ukraine Negotiations Intelligence

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard issued a directive on July 20 that prohibits sharing intelligence on peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine with the Five Eyes alliance, which includes the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The directive classifies all related data as NOFORN, barring dissemination to foreign nationals or allied countries, though publicly available information can still be shared. The restriction limits distribution to within the agencies that generated the intelligence but does not affect sharing diplomatic or military operational information unrelated to the negotiations, including US support to Ukrainian forces. Former CIA officer Steven Cash highlighted that such a move could undermine the intelligence alliance's effectiveness by reducing the comprehensive intelligence picture needed for coordinated policymaking and negotiation strategies. Some intelligence officials view these limitations as common practice in national interest areas, while others see potential political motivations behind the criticism of the directive. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence referred inquiries to the White House, which did not respond to requests for comment.