20 Years at the CIA: Aaron Lukas, Tulsi Gabbard's Replacement as Acting Director of National Intelligence
President Donald Trump has named Aaron Lukas as Acting Director of National Intelligence, replacing Tulsi Gabbard who will resign effective 30 June 2026. The appointment was announced by Trump via social media and confirmed by Reuters.
While not widely known to the public, Lukas is a senior intelligence figure with a long career in the United States national security community, particularly in intelligence operations and Russia–Europe issues.
Originating from the realm of Intelligence Operations:
US media describe Lukas as a ‘career government official’ who has spent many years in the national security sector. The Washington Post reported that Lukas is a former undercover CIA officer and has served as CIA station chief. This field experience is cited as one reason Lukas is viewed as having a strong understanding of global intelligence operations and international security networks.
According to the ODNI, Lukas has more than 20 years of experience in the US intelligence community. He is said to have handled sensitive covert programmes with direct implications for US national security. The ODNI also notes that Lukas holds qualifications in advanced CIA covert operations techniques and has experience running covert operations and maintaining international intelligence relationships in various countries.
Handling Russia and Europe at the White House:
During Trump's first term, Aaron Lukas served on the National Security Council (NSC) as Deputy Senior Director for Europe and Russia. That position involved him in strategic issues related to Russia, NATO, and security in Eastern Europe.
He also served as an intelligence aide to Ric Grenell when Grenell was Acting Director of National Intelligence in 2020. Reuters noted that this experience brought Lukas close to Trump's national security circle.
Trusted as Principal Deputy DNI:
Trump nominated Aaron Lukas as Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence in 2025. After undergoing Senate confirmation, Lukas was confirmed as the deputy head of the DNI.
As Principal Deputy DNI, Lukas became one of the most senior officials coordinating the 18 US intelligence agencies, including the CIA, NSA, and DIA. This structure sits under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.