Counterintelligence experts have long warned that foreign governments, including China, sometimes use personal relationships, business ties, or academic connections to gather information from U.S. officials and institutions. Former intelligence personnel familiar with diplomatic security procedures described undisclosed romantic relationships as a significant vulnerability because they can expose officials to pressure, manipulation, or blackmail.
The State Department declined to provide additional details about the internal investigation but confirmed that long-standing rules require employees to immediately report continuing relationships with foreign nationals who may have ties to foreign governments.
