Former senior CIA officer is urging for congressional hearings following a new report linking Russia to the mysterious “Havana Syndrome” attacks on American personnel. The report contradicts the 2023 assessment by the U.S. intelligence community, which had previously suggested that a foreign adversary was not likely responsible for the symptoms.

The joint investigation implicates the Russian GRU military intelligence agency in the development of “non-lethal acoustic weapons” believed to be responsible for the attacks. These attacks, which have occurred in various locations, have been linked to Russian intelligence officers.

Symptoms of the Havana Syndrome include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and pain, with lasting effects on the victims. In response to the growing concerns, President Joe Biden signed the Havana Act in 2021, allowing payments to be made to personnel who suffer brain injuries as a result of hostilities.

The White House has now ordered agencies to prioritize the investigation into the cause of Havana Syndrome, with calls for congressional hearings to understand how the intelligence community’s initial assessment may have gotten it wrong.

The implications of the report are significant, as it suggests that Russia may be behind the attacks on American personnel. The development of non-lethal acoustic weapons by the GRU raises serious concerns about the safety and security of U.S. diplomatic and intelligence personnel around the world.

As the investigation continues, it is clear that further action must be taken to protect American personnel and hold those responsible for the Havana Syndrome attacks accountable. Congressional hearings will provide a platform for experts to explore the implications of the report and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent future incidents.