Overview
- The CIA released a new Mandarin-language video on YouTube inviting contacts from disillusioned members of China’s military and those with ties to sensitive sectors.
- Accompanying Chinese text urges viewers to leak information on senior leaders and military personnel and provides instructions to reach the agency securely, including via the dark web and Tor, according to reporting.
- China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the move and said the country would take all necessary measures to counter foreign espionage and defend national security.
- The campaign extends a public-facing strategy the CIA used last year with similar videos that its director, John Ratcliffe, said were intended to recruit Chinese officials.
- Coverage notes the timing follows the recent removal of prominent General Zhang Youxia, adding sensitivity to messaging directed at military insiders.