Conflict & Security
US orders federal agencies to remove DeepSeek AI from government systems
October 20, 2026 at 02:28 PM
The Department of Homeland Security has ordered US federal civilian agencies to remove Chinese AI startup DeepSeek's products from their systems over national security concerns.
- DHS ordered civilian agencies to stop purchasing DeepSeek products and remove them from government IT systems, including third-party tools built on its technology.
- DHS said DeepSeek's models "present multiple threat vectors" and that sensitive data could transfer to China under Chinese law.
- China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing opposes "overstretching the concept of national security" and will safeguard Chinese companies' rights.
- A December 2025 law already restricted DeepSeek in intelligence systems; Monday's order extends restrictions to civilian agencies.