WH Calls House Intel Chair’s Comments About Russian Space Nuke Program ‘Irresponsible’

Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) has accused the administration of withholding information on Russia’s plans to develop a space-based nuclear weapon.

White House national security communications adviser John Kirby speaks during a news conference at the White House on May 6, 2024. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

WASHINGTON—The White House is rebuking a congressman from Ohio for allegedly politicizing the nation’s response to a Russian nuclear weapons program.

On June 20, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), who is chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, had gone against the wishes of the intelligence community in publicizing the existence of a Russian program to develop a nuclear anti-satellite weapon.