Trump Threatens to Cut Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine While CIA Maintains Support

US-Ukraine Relations Amidst Ongoing Conflict

According to 5 канал: US President Donald Trump has warned that intelligence sharing with Ukraine could be halted unless Kyiv stops targeting Russian oil refineries. Despite this threat, American intelligence agencies continue to assist Ukrainian forces in striking deep into Russian territory and identifying missile and drone threats. Meanwhile, the relationship between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has deteriorated, with Trump accusing Zelensky of prolonging the conflict.

The CIA’s Expanding Role and Issues Surrounding Starlink

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has significantly stepped up its operations in support of Ukraine, reportedly more active than during Joe Biden’s administration, according to a European intelligence source. CIA Director John Ratcliffe, who advises President Trump, occupies a complex position in US-Ukraine relations. Ukrainian officials do not view Ratcliffe as an unequivocal ally but recognize his thorough understanding of the frontline realities.

Ratcliffe recently traveled to Moscow to hold talks with Russian intelligence officials via an informal communication channel. The purpose of this visit was to convey Washington’s assessment of the battlefield situation and to persuade Russian counterparts that continuing the war is futile. Although Ratcliffe did not meet with Vladimir Putin personally, he briefed Zelensky on the outcomes of these discussions in September 2026 during a layover in Ireland.

Last week, Ukraine experienced disruptions in the Starlink satellite internet system and US early warning networks, caused by Russian missile strikes and possible technical faults. Officially, the US has not stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine, but Trump retains the option to do so at any time. Ratcliffe has emphasized that the CIA’s focus should remain on intelligence gathering and covert operations, even as his leadership faces staff reductions and dismissals.

Restrictions limiting Starlink’s speed in Ukraine remain in place, capped at 161 km/h, which hampers Ukrainian efforts to intercept high-speed jet drones traveling over 400 km/h. President Trump has appealed to Elon Musk to lift these limitations, but the situation remains unchanged. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has confirmed the restoration of Starlink and Starshield functionalities at speeds exceeding 400 km/h, though ongoing restrictions continue to affect military effectiveness.

This complex dynamic highlights the delicate nature of US-Ukraine relations during the ongoing war, where American intelligence remains a vital partner while navigating political uncertainties at the highest levels.

Coordination between Washington and Kyiv demands continuous oversight and flexibility as both nations pursue their strategic objectives despite disagreements and operational challenges.

As the dynamics between Trump and Zelensky continue to strain, the role of the CIA in supporting Ukraine remains crucial. For a deeper understanding of how these tensions impact intelligence operations and the ongoing assistance provided to Ukraine, read more about the CIA's involvement in Ukraine amid the complex relationship.