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The Real-Life Russian Spies Who Inspired 'The Americans'

Fresh Air

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Inside Russia's Illegals Program

This chapter explores Russia's clandestine illegals program, tracing its evolution from the Soviet era to present-day espionage tactics under Putin. It highlights personal stories of spies, their struggles, and the psychological toll of living undercover, particularly emphasizing the emotional and physical challenges faced during and after integration into foreign societies. The narrative illustrates the rigorous training spies undergo and the complexities of their operations, alongside the historical context that shapes Russia's intelligence strategies.

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