Lawmakers briefed on possible security threat

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are concerned that space could become the new battlefield.

“It’s a serious matter,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, at the request of House Speaker Mike Johnson, briefed lawmakers about the national security threat Thursday afternoon.

“It does involve Russia. It’s not a matter that can involve delay,” Johnson added.

U.S. officials say Russia is developing a nuclear-capable weapon that would be used in space to destroy American satellites, but it has not yet deployed.

“This is not an act of capability, but it is a potential one that we’re taking very, very seriously,” said Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Ohio Republican Congressman Mike Turner, the chair of the House Intelligence committee, first revealed the threat in a cryptic statement.

He’s calling on the president to declassify the information.

“I’ve got great faith in what the administration is currently doing to address this matter,” said Turner.

The top democrat on the House Intelligence committee, Connecticut Congressman Jim Himes, says there’s no need for panic.

“I think we all walked out of there very satisfied that the administration is and has been doing a good job tracking this particular threat,” said Himes.

The White House says Russia is potentially violating a long-standing treaty.

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