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The Spy Who

The Spy Who Putin Poisoned | Always a Spy | 3

Nov 5, 2024
Dive into the origins of the lethal Novichok toxin from a secretive Soviet lab. Explore the harrowing journey of Sergei Skripal as he transitions from Russian imprisonment to a precarious new life in England. Unpack the emotional turmoil of former spies facing betrayal and the struggle to forge new paths. Experience the chilling moments leading up to the poisoning incident, revealing the sinister planning by covert operatives. This gripping narrative weaves together espionage, danger, and the personal stakes involved.
29:46

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Novichok, the deadliest nerve agent, illustrates the terrifying capabilities of chemical weapons developed by the Soviet Union, posing significant risks to national security.
  • Sergei Skripal's journey reflects the emotional struggles of espionage, as he faces haunting memories while seeking a new life in Britain under constant threat.

Deep dives

The Development of Novichok

Novichok 5 is highlighted as the deadliest nerve agent ever created, developed by the Soviet Union. It has the ability to evade detection by NATO equipment, penetrate protective suits, and remain effective for up to 50 years. A significant moment occurs when scientist Andrei Zelenskyakov witnesses the effects of Novichok on a test rabbit, illustrating its devastating impact as the rabbit suffers severe convulsions and ultimately paralysis. This chilling scene not only underscores the lethal nature of the toxin but also serves as a foreshadowing of its later use in real-world scenarios.

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