Trump restricts access to classified data for key political opponents

US President Donald Trump has decided to restrict access to classified information for a number of senior figures, including former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. 

This decision is part of Trump's broader policy aimed at limiting access to state secrets for those he considers political opponents. It is worth recalling that similar measures were previously taken against former President Joe Biden, as well as 51 former intelligence officials who signed a letter claiming that the laptop of Biden's son, Hunter, was part of a Russian disinformation campaign.

New restrictions for influential politicians and lawyers

Trump explained his decision by stating that he believes it is important to punish those who, in his view, used state resources for political purposes, including interference in elections. In particular, he noted that Blinken was the main organiser of the letter that discredited information about the Biden family ahead of the 2020 elections.

In addition, the list of individuals whose access to classified information will be restricted includes other influential figures, such as Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and New York Attorney General Letitia James. These actions may hinder the performance of their official duties, but many experts lean towards the view that the decision is more symbolic in nature.

Political context and continuation of investigations

As Trump emphasises, his administration will continue to take measures against those who, in his opinion, abused power or interfered in the electoral process. Among those who have also come under Trump's scrutiny are Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, lead prosecutor in the Russiagate investigation Andrew Weissman, and several other high-profile lawyers.

Not long ago, Trump also stripped Biden of access to daily intelligence briefings, which are usually provided to former presidents. According to him, he does not trust his predecessor and believes that he does not deserve access to classified information in the interests of national security.