Following the House Intelligence Committee chairman’s warning of a “national security threat” related to a “destabilizing foreign military capability” so serious that President Joe Biden should declassify “all information” about it, the White House national security adviser and prominent Capitol Hill lawmakers attempted to allay public concerns on Wednesday.
According to two people with knowledge of discussions on Capitol Hill, the intelligence relates to Russia’s desire to launch a nuclear weapon into space.
Sources within the GOP have revealed information pointing to a “national security threat” involving Russia’s alleged pursuit of nuclear weapons in space. The situation, characterized by one insider as “very concerning and very sensitive,” has raised alarm among lawmakers, prompting urgent discussions within Congress.
While the exact nature of the threat remains classified, it has been clarified that the concern is not about dropping a nuclear weapon onto Earth but rather its potential use against satellites.
Despite the gravity of the situation, members of Congress have been cautious in their public statements, emphasizing the sensitivity of the matter.
House Speaker Mike Johnson assured reporters that congressional leaders are committed to addressing the issue collaboratively, stating, “We are going to work together to address this matter, as we do all sensitive matters that are classified. But we just want to assure everyone that steady hands are at the wheel.”
Ranking member on the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Jim Himes, echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the significance of the warning but emphasizing that it is “not a cause for panic.” He suggested that discussions regarding the declassification of more information should take place in closed sessions.
Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Turner, Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, urged President Biden to declassify information related to the threat.
White House Takes Action Amidst National Security Threat
In a statement, Turner disclosed that his panel had made available information concerning a “serious national security threat” to all Members of Congress.
Lawmakers flocked to a secure facility in the Capitol basement throughout the afternoon to examine the raw intelligence associated with Turner’s warning. Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., expressed concern without divulging specific details.
A letter from Turner and Himes to members of Congress, obtained by ABC News, linked the threat to “a destabilizing foreign military capability that should be known by all Congressional Policy Makers.”
Responding to the developments, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that he had already scheduled a classified meeting with congressional leadership before Turner’s request.
Sullivan declined to provide specifics about the reported threat but assured the public that President Biden is focused on ensuring the security of the American people.
Sullivan’s efforts to engage with the Gang of Eight, leaders from both parties in both chambers of Congress, underscored the gravity of the situation.
The White House’s proactive stance on intelligence declassification was highlighted, with Sullivan emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing national security concerns.
The nation is watching this emerging national security scenario closely for more information as talks take place behind closed doors.
