Sources: CIA gets go-ahead to destabilize Yugoslavia
May 24, 1999
Web posted at: 10:15 a.m. EDT (1415 GMT)
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Clinton has authorized the
Central Intelligence Agency to look for ways to destabilize
the government of Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic,
sources tell CNN.
The authorization comes in the form of a "finding," a highly
classified document authorizing covert operations.
While it is not clear if any of the ideas being examined have
actually be put into effect, or will be, Newsweek magazine
says the tactic calls for:
- The use of computer hackers to attack Milosevic's
international bank accounts.
- A sabotage campaign to erode his public support. It would
include such tricks as cutting telephone lines, fouling
gasoline reserves and pilfering food supplies.
Contrary to some reports, however, the "finding" does not
authorize the CIA to train or equip Kosovo Liberation Army
rebels to perform covert acts of sabotage, according to CNN's
sources.
The Newsweek report says other NATO allies were not to be
told about the secret war.
It also said Senate and House intelligence committees were briefed on the decision.
Some lawmakers criticized the idea, questioning the legality
and wisdom of launching a risky covert action that could
alienate other NATO members, Newsweek said.
"If they pull it off, it will be great," the magazine quoted one government cyberwar expert as saying. "If they screw it up, they are going to be in a world of trouble."
Correspondent Carl Rochelle contributed to this report.
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