Crawford Sounds Alarm on China, Russia’s Growing Influence in America’s Backyard
House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rick Crawford, a Republican from Arkansas, is raising concerns about the increasing presence and influence of China and Russia in the Western Hemisphere. Crawford argues that the United States’ focus on the War on Terror in the Middle East has inadvertently created opportunities for these adversaries to expand their reach closer to home.
Crawford highlighted the aggressive actions of Russia, particularly in countries like Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela. He emphasized that Russia has been actively seeking to establish a foothold and exert influence in these nations, effectively encroaching on what the U.S. traditionally considers its sphere of influence.
Crawford referenced the Trump administration’s renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere, reminiscent of the Monroe Doctrine, which aimed to prevent European powers from meddling in the Americas. He pointed to the attempt to reclaim control of the Panama Canal from China, which resulted in a deal for U.S.-based BlackRock to take over key port operations from a Hong Kong-based company. However, Chinese authorities are reportedly attempting to undermine this deal, signaling their continued interest in the region.
As China poses a growing threat to U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific, Crawford believes the U.S. retains the capacity to prevail in a potential conflict with China, but warns that time is of the essence. He stressed the need to act decisively, as both China and Russia are rapidly advancing their offensive capabilities, including in space, shipbuilding, hypersonics, anti-ship ballistic missiles, and cyber warfare.
Crawford suggested a shift in U.S. policy, moving beyond a heavy reliance on cybersecurity towards a strategy that incorporates offensive capabilities. He noted that his predecessor, Mike Turner, was removed from the Intelligence Committee chairmanship after issuing a public warning about a threat later identified as Russian anti-satellite capabilities.
While acknowledging the potential for improved relations with Russia under President Trump, Crawford emphasized that Russia’s actions remain a cause for concern. He described Russia as a nation willing to engage in belligerent behavior and disregard international norms, citing its invasion of Ukraine as an example.
Crawford advocated for continued efforts to de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine while maintaining a cautious approach, echoing President Reagan’s mantra of "trust, but verify."
The Intelligence Committee Chairman also identified issues within the intelligence community itself, including challenges related to recruitment and retention. He criticized the IC’s handling of the Havana Syndrome, a series of unexplained health incidents affecting U.S. personnel, describing it as a "slap in the face" to those affected. Crawford expressed concern that the IC’s initial assessment, which downplayed the likelihood of foreign involvement, was flawed and inconsistent with analytic integrity.
Crawford’s CIA subcommittee released a report concluding that a foreign adversary was "increasingly likely" responsible for the anomalous health incidents. He warned that if intelligence personnel believe that leadership does not have their back, it could negatively impact recruitment and retention, ultimately undermining national security.
Crawford reaffirmed the importance of strengthening relationships with allies in the Western Hemisphere, particularly Guatemala, which he described as "probably our best ally in the hemisphere." He also highlighted the potential for partnerships with Guyana and Suriname, which have experienced significant mineral wealth development in recent years.
Crawford addressed the situation in Venezuela, where dictator Nicolas Maduro, backed by China, Russia, and Iran, has made territorial claims on neighboring Guyana. He noted that the U.S. does not recognize Maduro’s regime and has taken steps to tighten sanctions on Venezuelan oil and threaten further financial penalties if Maduro refuses to accept deported migrants.
Regarding Canada, Crawford expressed optimism that the current trade disputes and tensions over Trump’s suggestion of Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state would subside due to the strong national security partnership between the two countries. He characterized the situation as a "family spat" and emphasized Canada’s importance as an ally.
Crawford’s remarks underscore the growing recognition within the U.S. government of the need to address the challenges posed by China and Russia’s expanding influence in the Western Hemisphere. His focus on strengthening alliances, improving the intelligence community, and adopting a more assertive approach suggests a potential shift in U.S. policy towards the region.
The congressman’s statements carry particular weight given his position as Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, a role that grants him access to sensitive information and significant influence over national security policy. As the U.S. navigates an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, Crawford’s warnings about the threats in its own backyard serve as a call to action for policymakers and the intelligence community.
