The White House has disclosed that Russia is developing space-based anti-satellite weapons, a move deemed “troubling” but currently not posing an immediate threat.
John Kirby, the national security spokesman, stated that while US intelligence had detected Russia’s advancements in this technology, the weapon itself was not yet operational.
Kirby emphasized that US authorities were diligently assessing the situation and engaging with European allies. He reassured that although Russia’s pursuit of this capability raised concerns, there was presently no imminent danger to safety.
Acknowledging the weapon’s space-based nature, Kirby refrained from confirming whether it was nuclear-capable or nuclear-powered, dismissing speculation about its potential to harm humans or cause terrestrial destruction.
Moscow dismissed these assertions as a deliberate falsehood aimed at pressuring Congress into passing a Ukrainian aid package. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused the White House of employing tactics to expedite the bill’s approval.
The US and the UK had previously accused Russia of testing a space weapon in 2020, which Moscow dismissed as propaganda.
Kirby highlighted the potential risks posed by the latest weapon, including endangering astronauts in low orbit and disrupting critical military and civilian satellites. He noted that such actions would violate the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, signed by over 130 countries, including Russia and the US.
Experts noted the US’s lack of effective countermeasures against such weaponry. President Joe Biden was briefed on the matter and sought direct diplomatic engagement with Moscow.
The issue gained prominence after Mike Turner, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, issued a rare warning about a significant national security threat, urging Biden to declassify related information. Another Republican representative, Andy Ogles, called for an investigation into Turner’s actions and their potential impact on foreign and domestic policies.
White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan briefed lawmakers on the administration’s response options following the meeting.
