History Extra podcast The spy next door: Moscow's century-long plot to infiltrate the west
23 snips
Aug 26, 2025 
Shaun Walker, a journalist and author specializing in espionage, discusses the fascinating history of Russia's covert spy networks, particularly the 'illegals' living in the U.S. He reveals how these spies operated under assumed identities for decades, even deceiving their families. The conversation delves into the rigorous training they underwent and contrasts their glorification in modern Russia with the complexities of their lives. Walker also explores the evolution of Russian intelligence tactics, from the Cold War to contemporary disinformation strategies.
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What 'Illegals' Are
- Illegals are Russian spies trained to live abroad with no diplomatic cover and pose as ordinary foreigners.
- Training often takes four to five years with deep language, cultural and tradecraft preparation.
Roots In Bolshevik Underground
- The illegals programme traces back to Lenin and the Bolshevik underground that used disguises and conspirative methods.
- Lenin institutionalized a parallel legal and illegal movement to operate where diplomacy was impossible.
Paranoia Fueled The Purges
- Soviet paranoia and the clandestine mindset fed internal purges, where 'illegal' techniques were cited in accusations.
- The secretive espionage culture made it easier for the regime to suspect domestic enemies everywhere.
