UK: Leak of US officials’ chats shakes confidence of European countries, raises questions on intelligence sharing

UK: Leak of US officials' chats shakes confidence of European countries, raises questions on intelligence sharing

America’s allies are considering a leaked group chat of top US officials discussing plans for an attack on Yemen as a shocking security lapse. A journalist was also mistakenly added to this chat. After this incident, European countries now have doubts about the sharing of intelligence with Washington and the security of joint military operations.

Washington’s European allies see it as a dangerous and reckless move. A European diplomat said it was a serious security lapse that could cast doubt on intelligence sharing with the US. Neil Melvin, a security expert at the Royal United Services Institute, described the incident as “extremely shocking.” “This amounts to a complete disregard for normal security rules by high-ranking US officials,” he said.

Not only did the leaked chats raise security concerns, but US officials also ignored their European allies. Vice President J. D. Vance repeatedly expressed his disapproval of aid to Europe, while Defense Secretary Pat Hegseth called Europe weak and free.

The criticism is another blow to US-Europe relations, already weakened by President Donald Trump’s America First policy and disregard for allies. “This is not a new alarm for US allies,” Melvin said. It’s already playing.

However, European officials are publicly saying that their relationship with the US is strong. “The United States is our closest ally in security, defence and intelligence, and that relationship will continue,” said Dave Pares, spokesman for British Prime Minister Keir Starr. “The United States is our ally and France will continue to face current challenges, including security, together with Washington, as well as with our other allies and European partners,” the French foreign ministry said.

After coming to power for the second time, the Trump administration stopped funding government programs that promote democratic values around the world and took a tough stance towards outsiders.

US embassies in 17 countries have issued warnings that visitors could be expelled if their behaviour is found to be against government rules.

Many international tourists faced problems due to Trump’s strict policies, after which many European countries advised their people to be careful while traveling to the US.