# US-Russia intelligence diplomacy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-russia-intelligence-diplomacy > Updated: 2026-08-25T20:35:07.000Z. Sources: 598. Developments: 2. CIA Director John Ratcliffe conducted an unannounced visit to Moscow, marking the first trip by a CIA chief to the Russian capital since November 2021. Traveling via Riga, Latvia, Ratcliffe held discussions with Russian intelligence officials to facilitate contact between security services. While Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the discussions, he noted that Ratcliffe did not meet with President Vladimir Putin, though the President was briefed. The Kremlin described bilateral relations as being in a ‘profound crisis.’ Reports regarding the visit suggest Ratcliffe warned Russia against attacking NATO members, specifically Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The mission, described by President Donald Trump as ‘semi-routine,’ may have addressed intelligence regarding Russian military mobilization, the war in Iran, and potential prisoner exchanges. Additionally, the United States reportedly requested that Ukraine suspend strikes on Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and northern Russian regions during the duration of the visit. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-25: CIA Director reportedly warns Russia against attacking Baltic NATO states CIA Director John Ratcliffe reportedly warned Russia against attacking Baltic NATO members during an unexpected trip to Moscow. Meanwhile, former Ukrainian officials warn of critical resource shortages. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cia-director-reportedly-warns-russia-against-attacking-baltic-nato-states ### 2026-08-25: CIA Director John Ratcliffe conducts unannounced visit to Moscow CIA Director John Ratcliffe made an unannounced visit to Moscow for talks with Russian intelligence officials. The trip, described by President Trump as ‘semi-routine,’ may address the war in Ukraine and Iran. 597 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cia-director-john-ratcliffe-makes-unannounced-trip-to-moscow --- Cite as: US-Russia intelligence diplomacy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-russia-intelligence-diplomacy