CIA Director John Ratcliffe used a rare and previously unannounced trip to Moscow this week to warn Russian officials against escalating the conflict with NATO allies, particularly the Baltic states, according to people familiar with the visit, POLITICO reported.
Ratcliffe also pressed Moscow to reduce its military and economic support for Iran during the trip, according to one person familiar with the matter and a British official with knowledge of the discussions. All three sources spoke anonymously because of the sensitivity of the talks.
The CIA chief's visit to the Russian capital on Tuesday was not officially acknowledged by the Trump administration until Wednesday and immediately fueled speculation in Washington and European capitals. It is believed to be the first known visit to Moscow by a CIA director under President Donald Trump.
“The meeting was primarily to warn Russia against any escalatory action against the Baltic states,” one person familiar with the matter said.
The Wall Street Journal had earlier reported that Ratcliffe warned Russia against attacking NATO countries, although it did not provide further details.
