CIA chief Ratcliffe to join shuttle diplomacy in Russia-Ukraine talks

CIA Director John Ratcliffe is set to take a direct role in shuttle diplomacy between Moscow and Kyiv, signaling deeper US intelligence involvement in the negotiation track. This marks an expansion of the CIA's operational role into high-level political mediation, beyond traditional intelligence-sharing. The move suggests Washington is seeking to leverage intelligence channels to push for a settlement, though the specific agenda and Russian receptiveness remain unclear.