CIA Embraces Bitcoin as Strategic Weapon Against China

Washington, 2025 — In a significant strategic development, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is now viewing Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies not just as financial innovations but as critical national security assets. CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis made the announcement on Anthony Pompliano’s podcast, emphasizing crypto’s dual role in intelligence and defense.

“It’s another tool in the toolbox,” Ellis stated, highlighting the agency’s ability to disrupt enemy crypto use and to extract intelligence from blockchain activity. The comments underscore a growing contrast between the U.S. and China, with America embracing decentralized finance while Beijing enforces centralized digital control through the digital yuan.

Since President Trump took office, crypto has become a core part of U.S. financial strategy. Lawsuits against crypto companies have been dismissed, and the federal government now holds over 198,000 Bitcoins—most seized from illicit operations.

Ellis emphasized that while criminals use crypto, so do nation-states and companies: “Bitcoin is here to stay, and that’s a great trend.”