US warns of likely harm from WikiLeaks release
.. AP – FILE- In this Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010 file picture founder of the WikiLeaks website, Julian Assange, By ROBERT BURNS, AP National Security Writer Robert Burns, Ap National Security Writer – 14 mins ago
WASHINGTON – The Obama administration said Wednesday it has alerted Congress and begun notifying foreign governments that the WikiLeaks website is preparing to release sensitive U.S. diplomatic files that could damage U.S. relations with friends and allies.
Officials said the documents may contain everything from accounts of compromising conversations with political dissidents and friendly politicians to disclosures of activities that could result in the expulsion of U.S. diplomats from foreign postings.
U.S. diplomatic outposts around the world have begun notifying other governments that WikiLeaks may release these documents in the next few days.
"These revelations are harmful to the United States and our interests," State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said. "They are going to create tension in relationships between our diplomats and our friends around the world."
Crowley said the public airing of what were supposed to be private communications will likely erode trust in the U.S. as a diplomatic partner. And he said they could cause embarrassment if the files include derogatory or critical comments about friendly foreign leaders.
"When this confidence is betrayed and ends up on the front pages of newspapers or lead stories on television or radio, it has an impact," Crowley said.
The release is expected this weekend, although WikiLeaks has not been specific about the timing.
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