Chinese espionage and influence operations pose a dual threat to U.S. national security, blending covert intelligence gathering with sophisticated soft power strategies. From cyberattacks targeting government agencies to social media campaigns shaping public opinion, China is leveraging both spies and influencers to undermine U.S. policies and disrupt governmental stability. These coordinated efforts aim not only to steal valuable information but also to sway political discourse, erode trust in democratic institutions, and shift the global balance of power in Beijing's favor. As this threat evolves, the U.S. faces the urgent challenge of defending its interests on multiple fronts.
How does it all work?