US Government Orders Anthropic to Halt Foreign Access to AI Models

Anthropic stopped providing its Claude 5 and FeiBUL5 AI models to all foreign users on June 12, 2026 ^[1].

This sudden restriction signals a tightening of U.S. control over advanced artificial intelligence exports. By cutting off access for international users, including those in Japan, the U.S. government is treating high-level AI capabilities as critical national security assets rather than commercial software.

The company said the move followed a directive from the U.S. government based on national security concerns ^[1]. While the specific nature of these concerns was not detailed, the order resulted in an immediate shutdown of access for users outside the United States ^[1].

The timing of the suspension is particularly abrupt for some users. The FeiBUL5 model had only been available to the general public since June 9, 2026 ^[1].

Anthropic said it believes the situation is based on a misunderstanding and is working to resume service as quickly as possible ^[1]. However, reports on the scope of the government's interference vary. While some reports focus on foreign access, other data indicates President Trump previously directed U.S. government agencies to stop using Anthropic products for a period of six months ^[2].

Despite the current shutdown, some indications suggest a potential reversal. Reports indicate the White House may be considering a plan to void the service suspension and promote the technology again ^[3]. For now, the models remain unavailable to the international community.