Russia has obtained a 'troubling' emerging anti-satellite weapon, US intelligence says

The Biden administration publicly confirmed on Thursday that Russia has obtained a "troubling" emerging anti-satellite weapon but said it cannot directly cause "physical destruction" on Earth.

White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said US intelligence officials have information that Russia has obtained the capability but that such a weapon is not currently operational. 

US officials are analysing the information they have on the emerging technology and have consulted with allies and partners on the matter.

"First this is not an active capability that’s been deployed and though Russia’s pursuit of this particular capability is troubling, there is no immediate threat to anyone’s safety," Kirby said. 

"We’re not talking about a weapon that can be used to used to attack human beings or cause physical destruction here on Earth".

The White House confirmed its intelligence after a vague warning on Wednesday from the Republican head of the House Intelligence Committee, Ohio congressman Mike Turner, urged the Biden administration to declassify information about what he called a serious national security threat.

Kirby said that the process of reviewing and declassifying information about the Russian capability was underway when Turner "regrettably" released his statement.

"We have been very careful and deliberate about what we decide to declassify downgrade and share with the public," he added.

Russia has downplayed the US concern about the capability.

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the claims about a new Russian military capability as a ruse intended to make the US Congress support aid for Ukraine.

"It’s obvious that Washington is trying to force Congress to vote on the aid bill by hook or