Can Western Democracies Still Rely on US Intelligence?

🌎 Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up – March 7, 2025 🕵️‍♂️

🚨 This week’s episode is packed with intelligence and national security developments you NEED to know! From Russian cyber threats to Arctic security vulnerabilities, espionage scandals, and the latest geopolitical tensions—Neil Bisson breaks it all down with expert analysis.

🔎 Inside this episode:
✅ Cyber Threats & Russia – Chuck Schumer warns that pausing U.S. cyber operations gives Putin a "free pass." What are the risks?
✅ China's Influence in the Philippines – Suspected Chinese spies are using financial donations as leverage. How deep does this go?
✅ Sabotage in the Baltic Sea – Swedish police investigate an attack on critical infrastructure. Is this part of a broader pattern?
✅ U.S.-Ukraine Relations – A heated Oval Office meeting leaves U.S.-Ukraine intelligence sharing in limbo. What does this mean for the war?
✅ A Canadian Teen Recruited by Russian Intelligence – A shocking espionage case raises concerns about youth recruitment in intelligence.
✅ Canada’s Arctic in the Crosshairs – CSIS warns that foreign adversaries see the Arctic as a vulnerable target. How is Canada responding?
✅ Europe’s Undersea Internet Cables Under Attack? – Mysterious "shadow fleets" and suspected sabotage put global communications at risk.
✅ The U.S. Shuts Down Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine – What are the battlefield and geopolitical consequences of this decision?

With over 25 years in intelligence and law enforcement, Neil Bisson delivers top-secret-level insights into the world of espionage, foreign interference, and national security.

📌 CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
01:30 - Cyber threats: Schumer warns of U.S. cyber operations pause
05:00 - China’s influence in the Philippines through financial donations
08:40 - Swedish police investigate suspected sabotage in the Baltic Sea
12:10 - Trump, Zelensky, and a heated Oval Office meeting
15:15 - A Canadian teen recruited as a Russian spy
18:15 - Canada’s Arctic: A growing national security concern
20:45 - Europe’s undersea internet cables under attack
22:15 - U.S. cuts intelligence sharing with Ukraine
22:50 - Outro

Learn how Human Sources are recruited and managed: 

https://pdinstitute.uottawa.ca/PDI/Courses/National-Security/The-Psychology-Behind-Human-Sources/Course.aspx?CourseCode=S0236

🎙 Enjoying the podcast? Support the show on Patreon or Buzzsprout to keep these intelligence briefings coming!

📢 Don’t forget to like, share & subscribe to stay updated on the latest in national security and intelligence.

🔗 Links to all sources & articles in the show notes!

#Intelligence #Espionage #CyberSecurity #Geopolitics #GlobalSecurity

Transcript

2025 03 07 Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap Up

INTRO:

MUSIC:
Welcome to this week’s Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up, where we break down the most pressing intelligence and national security stories shaping the world.

With over 25 years of experience in intelligence and law enforcement, Neil Bisson—Director of the Global Intelligence Knowledge Network and a retired Intelligence Officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service—brings you expert insights into the key developments you need to know.

This week, we uncover the growing cyber threat landscape as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer warns of potential Russian cyberattacks amid rising tensions in Ukraine. 

What does this mean for global cybersecurity, and how should governments prepare?

Meanwhile, Canada’s Arctic is under increasing scrutiny as CSIS identifies it as a vulnerable hotspot for foreign adversaries like China and Russia. 

With shifting geopolitics in the north, what are the security risks, and how is Canada responding?

We also examine a shocking espionage case involving a Canadian teenager recruited by Russian intelligence, the latest shadowy sabotage attempts targeting Europe’s undersea internet cables, and the Philippine government’s investigation into suspected Chinese spies using financial donations as a tool of influence.

Plus, the U.S. has halted all intelligence sharing with Ukraine following a heated Oval Office meeting between Presidents Trump and Zelensky. 

What are the implications for Ukraine’s battlefield strategy and broader NATO security?

Stay tuned as Neil unpacks these urgent developments.

Now, let’s get started.

MUSIC

Welcome to another episode of the Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up. 

I'm your host, Neil Bisson, a retired Intelligence Officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and the Director of the Global Intelligence Knowledge Network. 

Each week, we delve into pressing issues in national security, foreign interference, espionage, terrorism, and all things spy-related. 

More intelligence and national security shakeups out of Washington this week leads us to our first story where we're focusing on a recent article from The Guardian entitled "Chuck Schumer warns of Russian cyber threats amid Ukraine crisis."

The article highlights U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's concerns regarding potential Russian cyber threats as tensions escalate in Ukraine. 

Schumer emphasizes the necessity for heightened cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive information from possible Russian cyberattacks.

From an intelligence standpoint, this situation underscores the persistent and evolving nature of cyber threats posed by state actors like Russia. 

Cyber warfare has become a central component of modern geopolitical conflicts, enabling nations to disrupt adversaries without traditional military engagement. 

The potential for Russian cyberattacks amid the Ukraine crisis could have significant implications for national security, economic stability, and public trust in governmental institutions.

Russia's use of cyber operations is well-documented, with notable incidents like the 2016 U.S. election interference, and the 2017 NotPetya attack, which caused widespread disruption globally. 

The current geopolitical climate, marked by Russia's actions in Ukraine, raises the likelihood of cyber offensives targeting nations opposing Russian interests. 

This aligns with a broader trend of cyber tactics being employed to achieve strategic objectives without direct military confrontation.

While the article references Schumer's warnings, it's essential to consider insights from cybersecurity experts who advocate for proactive defense strategies. 

Implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, conducting regular threat assessments, and fostering international collaboration are crucial steps in mitigating risks associated with state-sponsored cyber threats.

Drawing from my experience in intelligence collection and analysis, it's evident that the integration of cyber capabilities into national defense strategies is no longer optional but imperative. 

Nations must invest in cybersecurity infrastructure and cultivate a culture of vigilance to counter sophisticated cyber adversaries effectively.

Senator Schumer's warnings shed light on the pressing need to bolster cybersecurity measures amid escalating geopolitical tensions. 

As cyber threats from state actors like Russia become more sophisticated, nations must prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard critical infrastructure and maintain public trust.

Looking ahead, we can anticipate an increase in cyber operations as tools of geopolitical influence. 

Staying informed and adopting proactive defense measures will be vital in navigating this evolving landscape.

MUSIC

We head to the Philippines for our next story where we're focusing on a recent article from Reuters titled "Philippines to scrutinize donations by suspected Chinese spies."

The article reports that the Philippine government plans to investigate donations made by groups affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party or CCP, led by four Chinese nationals accused of espionage. 

These donations included 500,000 pesos to the mayor of Tarlac City, 10 motorbikes to Manila's police, and 10 patrol vehicles to Tarlac's police. 

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized that while donations made in good faith are acceptable, those with ulterior motives warrant scrutiny.

From an intelligence perspective, this situation highlights the potential use of soft power tactics by state actors to influence foreign entities. 

Donations and aid can serve as tools for espionage or to sway local officials, thereby compromising national security. 

The involvement of individuals linked to the CCP raises concerns about foreign interference in domestic affairs.

China has a history of employing non-traditional methods to extend its influence abroad. 

In the Philippines, there have been instances where Chinese nationals were arrested for espionage activities, including surveillance of naval facilities. 

These activities often coincide with geopolitical tensions, such as disputes in the South China Sea, where both nations have vested interests.

The Philippines currently lacks specific legislation addressing foreign interference, though efforts are underway to draft such laws. 

Existing guidelines require presidential approval for donations from foreign entities, indicating a recognition of the risks associated with foreign influence.

While the article does not cite specific expert opinions, the actions of the Philippine government reflect a growing awareness of the need to scrutinize foreign contributions. 

Implementing robust legal frameworks to monitor and regulate foreign donations is crucial in mitigating potential espionage and undue influence.

Drawing from my professional experience in intelligence, it's evident that vigilance against covert influence operations is essential. 

Governments must balance diplomatic relations with the imperative to protect national sovereignty and security.

The Philippine government's decision to scrutinize donations from groups linked to suspected Chinese spies underscores the importance of safeguarding against foreign interference. 

As nations navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, establishing clear policies and legal measures to address such challenges becomes imperative.

Looking ahead, we can expect increased attention to foreign donations and collaborations, prompting nations to bolster their defenses against covert influence operations.

With Canada preparing for an upcoming federal election, being able to identify where political donations are coming from, will be a key point in detecting, and combating foreign interference. 

MUSIC

We head to the Baltic Sea for our next story which focuses on a recent incident reported by Euronews: in an article entitled "Swedish police investigate suspected sabotage on Baltic Sea Island."

The article reports that Swedish authorities are investigating a suspected sabotage attempt targeting the water supply infrastructure on the Baltic Sea Island of Gotland. 

The incident involved unauthorized access to electrical installations controlling the water supply, but the operation was halted before any disruption occurred. 

From an intelligence perspective, this event underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to covert operations. 

Gotland holds strategic significance in the Baltic Sea, serving as a pivotal point for military and geopolitical interests. 

Any compromise of its essential services, such as water supply, could have far-reaching implications for national security and regional stability.

Gotland's strategic importance has been magnified following Sweden's accession to NATO. 

In response to escalating regional tensions, Sweden has bolstered its military presence on the island since 2022 and plans to continue increasing troop deployments through 2027. 

This incident is part of a broader pattern of suspected sabotage activities in the Baltic Sea region, including damage to undersea data cables connecting Sweden to neighboring countries. 

While specific expert opinions are not cited in the article, Swedish authorities have expressed grave concern over the sabotage attempt, recognizing it as a significant threat to national security. 

The incident highlights the necessity for heightened vigilance and robust protective measures for critical infrastructure, especially in strategically sensitive regions like Gotland.

From an intelligence standpoint, it's evident that safeguarding critical infrastructure requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing physical security enhancements, cyber defenses, and continuous monitoring to detect and deter potential threats.

Now more than ever, attention to critical infrastructure integrity should be of the highest importance to many countries and nations. 

Why? You ask. 

Well, the current geopolitical landscape is going through a paradigm shift. 

Government’s that actively participate in state sponsored hacking and cyber espionage are poised to take advantage of this shift and attack infrastructure of enemy states to weaken their economy, cause political turmoil and potentially weaken military and security intelligence apparatuses. 

Countries that have traditionally shared information regarding cyberattacks and cyberespionage are no longer seeing the free-flowing exchange of intelligence previously regarded as the norm. 

In order to prepare for an interruption in critical infrastructure citizens should obtain access to sufficient supplies of water, food, alternative sources of energy (including generators or portable power stations) and access to funds in case of periods of interruption in clean water supply, energy transmission and banking. 

The suspected sabotage attempt on Gotland's water supply infrastructure serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats facing critical assets. 

As geopolitical tensions persist in the Baltic Sea region and elsewhere, proactive measures to protect essential services are imperative to maintain national security and public confidence.

Looking ahead, I anticipate increased efforts by state and non-state actors to exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. 

It is crucial for nations to invest in resilience and preparedness to counter such covert operations effectively.

MUSIC

Our next story deals with an issue that has been on the minds of many since it occurred, we're focusing on a recent article from CNN titled "Trump and Zelensky's Heated Oval Office Meeting Raises National Security Concerns."

The article reports on a tense meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that took place in the Oval Office on February 28, 2025. 

The discussion devolved into a heated exchange, with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance berating President Zelensky over Ukraine's stance in the ongoing conflict with Russia. 

Looking at this in through the lens of intelligence cooperation, such public displays of discord between allied nations can have significant implications. 

They may embolden adversarial actors, in this case, Russia, by showcasing fractures in alliances that have traditionally countered their influence. 

The suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine following this meeting further exacerbates the situation, substantially weakening Ukraine's defense posture against Russian aggression. 

This incident is not isolated but part of a broader pattern of shifting U.S. foreign policy under the current administration. 

The Trump administration has expressed a desire to pivot focus from European engagements to priorities in Latin America and the Western Hemisphere. 

This strategic realignment raises concerns among European allies about the United States' commitment to countering Russian expansionism and supporting Eastern European democracies. 

The current U.S. Administration has shown that they too are looking at the world as an expansionist opportunity. 

Whether annexing Canada as the 51st state, acquiring Greenland for they are purporting as national security reasons, or taking over the Panama Canal, the current US President has continually referenced an America first agenda. 

The international community has reacted strongly to this development. 

European leaders have rallied in support of President Zelensky, emphasizing the importance of a united front against authoritarianism. 

Conversely, Russian officials have lauded the outcome of the meeting, perceiving it as a diplomatic victory that could potentially weaken NATO's cohesion. 

Public disputes between allied leaders can be exploited by adversaries to sow discord and advance their strategic objectives.

The contentious meeting between Presidents Trump and Zelensky underscores the complexities of international diplomacy amid ongoing conflicts. 

The suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine not only impacts the immediate security situation but also sends signals to global actors about the current state of Western alliances.

Looking ahead, it is crucial for diplomatic channels to remain open and for allied nations to address internal disagreements privately to prevent adversaries from capitalizing on perceived divisions.

This being said, many of the comments coming out of the Oval Office demonstrate more of an affinity for Russia in this conflict than for bolstering Ukraine in their struggle against an unprovoked invasion. 

MUSIC

Our next story brings us back to Canada where we explore a concerning case involving a Canadian teenager sentenced for espionage activities on behalf of Russia.

This incident underscores the evolving tactics employed in intelligence operations, highlighting the recruitment of younger individuals for espionage purposes. 

From an intelligence perspective, this case raises alarms about the susceptibility of youth to foreign intelligence influence operations and the methods adversarial nations may use to exploit such vulnerabilities. 

The involvement of a teenager in espionage activities signifies a potential shift in recruitment strategies, aiming to leverage the naivety and digital proficiency of younger individuals.

Historically, espionage cases in Canada have involved adults with access to sensitive information. 

For instance, in the late 1980s, Stephen Joseph Ratkai, a Hungarian-Canadian, was convicted for attempting to gather information on the SOSUS network site at the US Naval Station in Argentia, Newfoundland. 

Ratkai, who was recruited by Soviet Intelligence, was caught in a sting operation and sentenced to nine years in prison. 

The current case involving a teenager marks a departure from traditional espionage profiles, indicating that foreign intelligence agencies may be adapting their strategies to target younger, more impressionable individuals.

While specific expert opinions on this case are limited, the trend of targeting younger individuals for espionage aligns with global patterns observed in recent years. 

Intelligence agencies worldwide have noted an increase in the use of non-traditional operatives, including students and young professionals, to infiltrate sensitive sectors. 

This approach allows foreign entities to exploit the digital savviness and extensive online networks of younger individuals, making it easier to gather intelligence without arousing suspicion.

The sentencing of a Canadian teenager for espionage on behalf of Russia serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of intelligence threats. 

It highlights the need for robust counterintelligence measures and public awareness to safeguard national security. 

As foreign intelligence agencies adapt their recruitment strategies, it is imperative for security agencies to anticipate and counter these tactics effectively.

MUSIC

Staying with National Security news in Canada, our next story explores the increasing vulnerabilities in Canada's Arctic region as highlighted by recent warnings from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service or CSIS.

CSIS has recently identified Canada's Arctic as a "vulnerable destination" for foreign adversaries, particularly Russia and China. 

This assessment underscores the strategic importance of the Arctic, which is becoming more accessible due to climate change, leading to heightened interest from global powers. 

From an intelligence perspective, the Arctic's vast resources and emerging shipping routes present both opportunities and challenges. 

The increasing presence of foreign nations in the region necessitates robust surveillance and defense mechanisms to protect national interests.

Historically, the Arctic has been a region of cooperation; however, recent geopolitical shifts have transformed it into a contested space. 

Russia has been bolstering its military presence, conducting wargames, and collaborating with China to capitalize on new shipping routes and access to valuable resources. 

In response, Canada has announced a new Arctic security policy, including opening consulates in Alaska and Greenland, appointing an Indigenous Arctic ambassador, and investing $8.1 billion over five years to enhance surveillance and defense capabilities. 

These measures aim to counter the growing influence of foreign adversaries in the region.

Glenn Cowan, a former special forces commander, emphasizes the necessity for technological investments and timely responses to emerging threats in the Arctic. 

He suggests that diplomatic efforts alone are insufficient to address the challenges posed by foreign adversaries. 

Additionally, CSIS's warning aligns with global observations of increased militarization and strategic competition in the Arctic, highlighting the need for comprehensive security strategies.

The Arctic's evolving geopolitical landscape presents significant challenges for Canada's national security. 

CSIS's warnings serve as a critical reminder of the need for proactive measures to safeguard sovereignty and interests in the region. 

As global powers continue to vie for influence, Canada's strategic investments and policies will play a pivotal role in maintaining stability and security in the Arctic.

MUSIC


We head to Europe for the next story and explore the escalating threats to Europe's undersea internet cables, as detailed in a recent article from The Guardian. 

The Guardian's investigation highlights the increasing risks posed by "shadow fleets" and potential subaquatic sabotage targeting Europe's undersea internet cables. 

These cables are vital for global internet connectivity, transmitting vast amounts of data across continents. 

Recent suspicious activities involving unidentified vessels near these cables have raised alarms about potential disruptions. 

Such incidents could have significant economic and security implications, disrupting communications and financial transactions, and compromising sensitive information. 

This concern is not without precedent. 

On December 25, 2024, the Estlink 2 submarine power cable between Estonia and Finland experienced an unplanned failure, reducing cross-border electricity capacity. 

Investigations suggest that the oil tanker Eagle S, believed to be part of Russia's shadow fleet, may have intentionally caused the damage by dragging its anchor. 

The incident has led to suspicions of aggravated vandalism and interference with communications. 

Additionally, on November 18, 2024, the BCS East-West Interlink submarine cable between Lithuania and Sweden, and the C-Lion1 cable between Finland and Germany, were both severed around the same time, leading to significant disruptions in telecom services. 

These incidents have heightened concerns about the vulnerability of undersea infrastructure to sabotage. 

While specific expert opinions on the recent Guardian article are not available, the pattern of incidents underscores the need for increased monitoring and international cooperation to protect these critical infrastructures. 

The potential for economic disruption and the compromise of sensitive information necessitates a coordinated response from nations reliant on these undersea cables.

The emerging threats to Europe's undersea internet cables highlight a critical vulnerability in global communications infrastructure. 

As suspicious activities and potential sabotage incidents increase, it is imperative for nations to enhance surveillance, bolster defenses, and collaborate internationally to safeguard these vital assets.

MUSIC

For our last story this week, we examine the recent cessation of U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine, a move that has significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.

The United States has officially halted all intelligence sharing with Ukraine, a decision that follows the earlier suspension of military aid. 

This abrupt cessation has left Ukrainian forces without critical battlefield information, undermining their strategic capabilities against Russian forces. 

The move has raised concerns about increased casualties and a potential shift in the conflict's dynamics. 

This development stems from a contentious meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which Trump insisted on Ukraine accepting U.S. terms for a peace deal with Russia. 

The failure to reach an agreement led to the suspension of support. 

Historically, U.S. intelligence sharing has been pivotal in bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities, providing real-time data that has been instrumental in countering Russian advances. 

Ukrainian Member of Parliament Kira Rudik condemned the U.S. decision as "brutal," expressing fears of increased casualties among Ukrainian forces and civilians. 

Former CIA Director John Brennan warned that prolonging this suspension could have disastrous consequences for Ukraine's defense efforts. 

The sudden withdrawal of support has also demoralized Ukrainian troops, who now face the daunting task of defending their territory without essential intelligence. 

The cessation of U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine marks a critical juncture in the Eastern European conflict. 

As Ukrainian forces grapple with diminished support, the international community must assess the broader implications for regional stability and the balance of power. 

The situation underscores the intricate dynamics of international alliances and the profound impact such decisions can have on ongoing conflicts.



Well, that brings us to the end of another episode of Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap Up. 

Thanks for taking the time to listen to this podcast which helps to keep you informed and prepared for the growing number of national security threats that may affect your country, your career or your well-being. 

I want to remind the listeners that later this month I will be teaching an online course for the University of Ottawa’s National Security Program. 

The course: “The Psychology Behind Human Sources in Intelligence Collection”, gives exclusive insight into how motivational factors play a key role in the recruitment and management of Human assets or sources. 

Registration is limited but there are some spots still available. 

I’ll leave a link in the transcript and hope to see you on the course. 

Until next week, stay curious, stay informed and stay safe. 

MUSIC

That’s a wrap for this week’s Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up.

From Russian cyber threats and Canada’s Arctic security concerns to Europe’s undersea cable vulnerabilities, a Canadian teen caught in espionage, and the U.S. cutting intelligence ties with Ukraine—today’s stories highlight the evolving and unpredictable world of intelligence.

Delivering these in-depth analyses takes time, expertise, and a commitment to uncovering the intelligence stories that matter most.

Each episode is built on extensive research, careful analysis, and decades of experience in intelligence and law enforcement.

If you found today’s insights valuable, consider liking, sharing, or leaving a comment—it helps expand the conversation and grow the podcast’s reach.

And if you’d like to support the show and help keep these intelligence briefings coming, you can do so through Patreon or Buzzsprout. 

Whether it’s a one-time contribution or ongoing support, every bit helps us continue delivering expert analysis on the security issues shaping our world. You’ll find the links in the show notes.

Thank you for listening.

And as Neil always says: stay curious, stay informed, and stay safe. See you next week.

LINKS:

University of Ottawa: The Psychology Behind Human Sources in Intelligence Collection: 
https://pdinstitute.uottawa.ca/PDI/Courses/National-Security/The-Psychology-Behind-Human-Sources/Course.aspx?CourseCode=S0236

Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2336717/support

Patreon: patreon.com/NeilBisson

Story 1: Schumer says cyber operations pause against Russia gives Putin ‘free pass’
Link: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/03/chuck-schumer-russia-putin-cyber-threats

Story 2: Philippines to scrutinize donations by suspected Chinese spies
Link: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippines-scrutinize-donations-by-suspected-chinese-spies-2025-03-03/

Story 3: Swedish police investigate suspected sabotage on Baltic Sea island
Link: https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/03/swedish-police-investigate-suspected-sabotage-on-baltic-sea-island

Story 4: Trump continues to seethe at Zelensky as national security team gathers to discuss what’s next on Ukraine
Link: https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/03/politics/trump-zelensky-national-security-meetings/index.html

Story 5: Canadian teen recruited to spy for Russia, now sitting in Polish jail
Link: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/canadian-teenage-russian-spy-jailed-1.7474399?cmp=rss

Story 6: Arctic a ‘vulnerable destination’ for foreign adversaries, CSIS warns 
Link: https://globalnews.ca/news/11066770/canada-arctic-foreign-adversaries-csis/

Story 7: ‘Shadow fleets’ and subaquatic sabotage: are Europe’s undersea internet cables under attack?
Link: https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2025/mar/05/shadow-fleets-subaquatic-sabotage-europe-undersea-internet-cables-under-attack

Story 8: Security official confirms US cut intelligence sharing with Ukraine
Link: https://www.aljazeera.com/program/newsfeed/2025/3/5/security-official-confirms-us-cut-intelligence-sharing-with-ukraine?traffic_source=rss