In a notable shift in allied intelligence dynamics, U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard issued a memorandum dated July 20, instructing all intelligence agencies to cease sharing any information related to Russia–Ukraine peace talks with Five Eyes partners, the U.K., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The memo designated such material as NOFORN (Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals), effectively restricting it from being shared with any non-U.S. entity, even longstanding allies. Only intelligence that has already entered the public domain may be disseminated. Moreover, access to relevant analysis and materials has been limited strictly to the agency that originated or produced them.
Officials clarified that the directive does not extend to all forms of intelligence: operational and military information unrelated to peace negotiations such as U.S. support to Ukraine’s defensive efforts and diplomatic intelligence gathered through other channels remain eligible for sharing within established frameworks.
Former CIA analyst Steven Cash emphasized the significance of this change, noting that “the value of the Five Eyes intelligence partnership is that we complement each other’s data… so policymakers and negotiators can coordinate positions,” underscoring that the move could fracture the long-standing intelligence synergy. Sam Vinograd, another national security commentator, warned of wider implications: if partners perceive themselves shut out from critical information exchange, they may explore alternate, parallel channels potentially excluding the U.S.
Yet, some intelligence officials argued such compartmentalization is not unprecedented. Hudson Institute fellow Ezra Cohen, who previously served in Pentagon intelligence, contended that information is often withheld even among Five Eyes members when national interests diverge. He described reactions to Gabbard’s directive as politically tinged, noting that selective withholding is “common practice” in intelligence-sharing arrangements.
The move comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and persistent war in Ukraine, where peace talks remain fragile. Though the memo was issued in July, the broader fallout is already visible. European officials, particularly from Germany and the Baltic states, have voiced concern over their reliance on U.S. intelligence. A report in The Washington Post quoted a Baltic security official warning that “warnings and tips European services have come to expect might kind of disappear” amid growing uncertainty over U.S. discretion and commitment.
While Gabbard’s office has denied any intent to diminish relations highlighting her extensive recent engagement with foreign partners, the disruption to Five Eyes’ intelligence sharing may have lasting effects, as questions mount about the durability of this historic alliance.
