John Kerry Says It’s ‘Very Likely’ Russia and China Reads His Email

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The Russian and Chinese governments are “very likely” reading Secretary of State John Kerry’s emails, Kerry said Tuesday.

“It is very likely. It is not outside the realm of possibility, and we know they have attacked a number of American interests over the course of the last few days,” Kerry told CBS Evening News anchor Scott Pelley in an interview.

The United States federal government has reportedly faced cyber attacks from groups in both countries. Kerry said that the government spends billions of dollars each year on cyber security and that it is a top priority of the current administration. The U.S. has also raised the issue in diplomatic talks with China, he said.

Still, Kerry said that he “certainly write things with that awareness” while the U.S. works to improve its cyber security and defend against threats.

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Write to Justin Worland at justin.worland@time.com