The US at high risk of espionage according to experts and here’s why

The massive reductions in federal personnel in the United States are causing growing concerns, increasing the risk of recruitment for espionage, particularly by Russia and China.

Although the recruitment of employees for spying activities is usual, the extent of the current layoffs, particularly with DOGE, exposes the United States to unprecedented threats, according to several experts.

According to several experts, the massive reduction of civil servants makes the country more vulnerable to recruitment attempts by foreign powers.

This risk is particularly high when these individuals have access to sensitive information, making them attractive targets for foreign agents, warn counter-espionage experts.

The situation is alarming as it affects key sectors of national security, such as intelligence, defense, and diplomacy. The laid-off employees possess crucial information, becoming priority targets for foreign powers.

China and Russia, in particular, are known for their constant efforts to recruit American citizens with access to sensitive information.

Although this type of recruitment happens even in times of stability, the current situation creates an ideal playground for large-scale espionage operations.

According to John Schindler, a former counter-espionage official, these recruitment practices occur even in «good times».

«This happens even in good times — someone in the intelligence community who for personal financial or other reasons walks into an embassy to sell America out — but DOGE is taking it to a whole new level,» said Schindler.

The growing protests of the population also highlight the social impact of these reductions.

Layoffs do not only affect national security, but also have economic and social repercussions, worsening the feeling of frustration and uncertainty among former federal employees.

These feelings may play a role in the vulnerability of some to recruitment attempts by foreign powers.