Cipher Brief May 23 – Intelligence Updates
Stay informed on the latest intelligence updates. The Cipher Brief’s May 23 report reveals critical shifts within the U.S. intelligence community, including congressional pushback against splitting Cyber Command and NSA leadership. You’ll also discover the CIA‘s appointment of a new head of covert operations, the DNI’s move to shift the President’s Daily Brief assembly, and the DHS‘s increased use of polygraphs to combat leaks. Plus, uncover Russia’s alleged use of Brazil as a base for espionage training, and other global developments. Keep up with critical national security data via News Directory 3. Discover what’s next in these important matters.
Cyber Command, NSA Split Faces Congressional Pushback
Updated June 02, 2025
A potential restructuring of teh National Security Agency (NSA) and Cyber Command is drawing fire from Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, changes are afoot at the CIA and within the intelligence community, including concerns over espionage and leaks.
Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., a member of the House Armed Services Committee, signaled strong bipartisan opposition to ending the dual-hatted leadership of the NSA and Cyber Command. Bacon stated that key members of Congress are against the move, directly addressing the Department of Defense leadership.
the CIA has reportedly appointed a new deputy director for spy ops, a veteran clandestine case officer currently serving as a station chief in the Middle East. The individual’s name is being withheld. Separately, rumors persist about a potential move for current CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis within the intelligence community.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard recently announced the assembly of the President’s Daily Brief (PDB) would shift from the CIA to ODNI. Beth Sanner, former Deputy Director of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, described the role of the briefer as delivering “uncomfortable truth” to the president.
Gen. Joe Votel (Ret.), former Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, was honored as a 2025 Distinguished Graduate by West Point.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under secretary kristi Noem, is reportedly increasing its use of polygraph investigations to identify individuals leaking data to the media. Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS spokeswoman, said the department is committed to finding leakers and prosecuting them.
A recent report indicates Russia has allegedly turned Brazil into a hub for training deep-cover spies, or “illegals,” who spend years assimilating to facilitate espionage operations.
Turkish intelligence recently reported the takedown of a Chinese espionage ring that used fake cell phone towers to gather intelligence.The operation was allegedly funded through hacked bank accounts.
A Swedish diplomat, suspected of espionage, died after being questioned by authorities. The Swedish SAPO security service confirmed the detention but did not release the diplomat’s name. Former foreign minister Carl Bildt referred to the deceased as a “tragically deceased ambassador.”
The Netflix series “The Diplomat” has been renewed for a fourth season, even before the premiere of its third season.
Tom Cruise is reportedly considering ideas for a third “Top Gun” film.
Matt Hartman, Deputy Executive assistant director for Cybersecurity at CISA, is leaving the agency. Marci McCarthy has been named Director of Public Affairs at CISA.
In Russia, Vladimir Nedoshivin, a retired engineer who helped design the Islander missile, died after an altercation in his apartment building.
The 43rd adjutant Battalion at Fort Leonard wood has banned profanity on its campus, implementing a four-strike policy for violations.
What’s next
The debate over the future of Cyber Command and the NSA is expected to continue, with Congress playing a key role in shaping any potential changes. The intelligence community will also be watching the impact of the new leadership appointments and policy shifts.