The Pete Quiñones Show Operation Gladio with Thomas777 - Complete
Jan 19, 2026
Thomas777, a commentator on Cold War history and political warfare, dives deep into Operation Gladio. He discusses how Gladio was born as a covert resistance network during the Cold War, with Italy as its focal point due to its complex political landscape. Thomas reveals connections to counterinsurgency theories and the influence of the Vatican. The conversation also tackles the ideological legacy of Gladio, its connections to terrorism, and its modern relevance in shaping right-wing movements and strategies in Europe.
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Episode notes
Cold War Was Perpetual Low‑Intensity War
- The Cold War was an abnormal, perpetual contest where peace resembled sustained warfare rather than true peacetime.
- Thomas777 argues this context made clandestine, harsh measures like Gladio a predictable strategic response.
Stay‑Behind Networks Were Planned Contingencies
- NATO planned 'stay‑behind' networks to generate insurgency if Warsaw Pact overran Western Europe.
- Gladio cells included hidden arms caches, escape plans, and politically loyal civilians structured as clandestine resistance.
Special Forces Origins Tied To WWII SOE
- Thomas777 recounts Special Operations Executive veterans and early Special Forces shaping Gladio tactics.
- He shares a personal connection: family friend Samuel Sarkeesian embodied the early Special Forces stay‑behind mission.
