Russian President Vladimir Putin could use President Biden’s support for Ukraine as a reason to meddle in the upcoming American election, US intelligence officials have estimated.
Intelligence agencies have yet to uncover evidence linking Putin to the operation, sources familiar with the matter told the Associated Press on Saturday.
However, the sources theorized that Putin might see US support for Ukraine as an insult to him and provide him with an incentive to get involved. It is unclear which candidates Russia might support or how they would help.
“Our Election Threats Executive continues to lead the intelligence community’s efforts against foreign threats to US elections,” said Avril Haines, a spokeswoman for the US director of national intelligence.
“We continue to work to meet the legal requirement to create a Center for Integrating Information on Malicious Foreign Influences.”
The spokesman declined to comment on what intelligence officials think of Putin’s intentions.
President Biden has backed Ukraine in its fight against Russia.Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/Shutterstock
The US director of national intelligence said the executive branch on election threats is working against “foreign threats.” AP Photo/Elise Amendola, file
The Russian Embassy in Washington did not respond to messages.
The assessment comes as the US electoral system is already under fire. Political factions remain sharply divided during the last presidential election.
Former President Donald Trump has strongly denied reports by US intelligence officials that Russia interfered to help him in the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections.
Former President Donald Trump has long denied any connection with his administration and the Kremlin. REUTERS/Octavio Jones/FILE
Tensions between the US and Russia have reached levels not seen since the end of the Cold War. The Biden administration has increased military support to Ukraine and helped impose global sanctions that have crippled the Russian economy.
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