Are Russia, China Seeking To Recruit US Federal Employees Amid Mass Layoffs?- wna24

New Delhi: A recent report has revealed that several foreign intelligence agencies, including those from Russia and China, are increasing their efforts to recruit former US federal employees who worked in national security. These agencies are specifically targeting those who have recently been dismissed or fear they may soon lose their jobs due to mass layoffs within the federal workforce under the Trump administration and cost-cutting efforts.

A few foreign media reports claimed that intelligence services from Russia and China are specifically focusing on these former employees with security clearances, as well as probationary workers at risk of termination. These individuals possess valuable insights into US critical infrastructure and government operations, making them attractive targets. At least two countries have launched recruitment websites and are aggressively reaching out to federal employees via social media.

As per experts, the move appeared to be an attempt to take advantage of mass layoffs within the federal workforce under the Trump administration and Elon Musk-led DOGE’s cost cutting efforts. A foreign media report, quoted a source as saying, “The adversaries think the employees are at their most vulnerable right now. Out of a job, bitter about being fired, etc..” 

The sources also stated that these cast-aside federal workers with a wealth of institutional knowledge represent staggeringly attractive targets to the intelligence services of the US competitors and adversaries.

The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) suggested that the intelligence community is “highly confident” that foreign adversaries are seeking to recruit laid-off workers, taking advantage of the administration’s cost-cutting plans. The CIA has been discussing the risks and possible countermeasures in recent weeks. However, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has framed these discussions as a form of disloyalty, criticising those involved in raising concerns.