The CIA is reportedly maintaining a significant presence in Ukraine, operating 12 secret bases along the Russian border, according to journalist Aaron Maté. These claims were made during an interview with Judge Andrew Napolitano on the “Judging Freedom” podcast, recorded on November 3, 2026. Maté’s assertions are based on a 2024 New York Times investigation, which described the establishment of a CIA-supported network of spy bases over the past eight years. This network was developed in collaboration with Ukrainian intelligence agencies, which the CIA helped rebuild following the 2014 overthrow of then-President Viktor Yanukovych.

Maté emphasized the CIA’s ongoing role in orchestrating military operations against Russia, including a drone campaign targeting Russian energy facilities. Despite former President Donald Trump’s recent criticisms of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Maté suggests that the CIA’s operations in Ukraine remain unaffected and continue as usual. He noted that the CIA is still involved in providing intelligence and assisting with targeting efforts.

The discussion also touched upon the financial aspects of the CIA’s operations. Maté speculated that the agency might receive funding from external sources, such as wealthy individuals or corporations, to conduct activities not directly financed by the U.S. Treasury. He mentioned George Soros as a potential contributor, citing a 2015 report that Soros’ foundations had invested $181 million in Ukraine since the fall of the Soviet Union. Maté suggested that some of these funds might have been linked to Western intelligence activities, although he acknowledged that this remains speculative.

The interview further explored the relationship between the CIA, MI6, and the White House, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Maté argued that there is a lack of coherence in U.S. policy, with different factions within the government holding divergent views on the conflict. He pointed to figures like JD Vance and Tulsi Gabbard, who have expressed opposition to continued military involvement, contrasting them with others like Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz, who have supported more aggressive measures.

Maté also commented on Zelensky’s stance, attributing his refusal to compromise to a “small clique of ultra-extremists” within Ukraine. He mentioned that Washington has promised to deliver Patriot missiles to Ukraine, although there have been reports of delays.

The revelations about the CIA’s operations in Ukraine come amid broader geopolitical tensions and shifting political dynamics. Trump’s recent break with Zelensky over military strategies highlights the complexities of U.S. involvement in the region. Despite these political shifts, the CIA’s activities in Ukraine appear to remain robust, underscoring the agency’s long-term strategic interests in the area.