White House Preparing Covert Cyber Strike on Russia

BELGRADE - The White House is considering launching a clandestine cyber operation against the Russian government to counter Moscow's alleged interference in the US presidential election, media reported citing intelligence officials.

The Obama administration has directed the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to provide options for a cyber operation that would "embarrass" the Kremlin, NBC News reported on Friday.

Vice President Joe Biden said the United States will "send a message" to Russian hackers who it has accused of trying to influence the presidential election.

In an interview with NBC News released on October 14, Biden was asked why the United States has not retaliated against Russia for meddling in the election by leaking the e-mails of top Democratic party officials and through other breaches.

"We're sending a message" and Russian President Vladimir...