CIA director's trip to Moscow was to warn Russia against attack on NATO: US media

A highly unusual trip by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to Moscow this week was to warn Russia against any attack on NATO, US media reported.

The Wall Street Journal, citing sources briefed on the visit, said it was prompted by US intelligence assessments that Russia could seek to test the key defense alliance with a "limited assault" on an ally member in the next few years.

During Tuesday's visit, Ratcliffe also discussed the war with Iran, warning of additional sanctions if the Strait of Hormuz doesn't reopen to shipping traffic, CBS News reported, citing multiple people familiar with the matter.

Ratcliffe's visit came amid an escalation in Moscow's offensive in Ukraine, with attacks this summer increasing the civilian death toll, while US-brokered peace talks have stalled.

Ratcliffe is one of the highest-ranking US officials to visit Russia since its war with Ukraine started in 2022.

The White House did not respond to several requests for comment.