British security chiefs alarmed by Trump’s ‘Russia apologist’ spy boss
04 February 2025
British security chiefs are alarmed at Donald Trump’s choice for the most senior intelligence role in America and hope she is blocked, The Telegraph can reveal.
Tulsi Gabbard is facing intense scrutiny over her perceived support for Russia and Syria as she seeks to become the US director of national intelligence, an appointment that needs US Senate approval.
The Telegraph understands that there is also deep disquiet at senior levels of the UK security services over the prospect of her appointment, which would give her access to the most sensitive secret intelligence.
After being grilled by the Senate intelligence committee last week, the committee approved her appointment in a private session on Tuesday. Her confirmation will now before the full Senate for approval, which will likely happen next week.
The confirmation presents another diplomatic challenge for Mr Trump as he engages in a trade war with China. A call between Mr Trump and Xi Jinping, the Chinese president, was cancelled after Beijing retaliated against tariffs imposed by the US.
In the past, Ms Gabbard pointed blame towards Ukraine hours after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 and cast doubt over Syrian chemical weapons use after meeting dictator Bashar al-Assad.
One senior security figure has expressed hope that Ms Gabbard’s appointment will be blocked by the Senate, which is Republican-held and can vote down her nomination.
Another figure with clearance to access British intelligence told The Telegraph: “She is completely unfit for the role.”
The source added: “The main concerns are on Russia. She comes over as an apologist. One thing we need at the moment is a united front.”
It is unlikely that the UK would withhold intelligence, shared with America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia through the “Five Eyes” partnership, if Ms Gabbard does reach the role, according to current and former UK figures who had intelligence clearance.