

Operation Gladio with Thomas777 - Complete
Apr 18, 2025
Thomas777, a Substack writer known for his historical revisionism, dives deep into the intricate web of Operation Gladio, unraveling its controversial Cold War strategies. He discusses NATO's covert actions, the moral dilemmas of asymmetrical warfare, and the enduring effects on modern geopolitics. The conversation also touches on post-war Italy's tumultuous politics and the rise of nationalist movements, scrutinizing the interplay between fascism and resistance. Their insights challenge conventional narratives, urging a reevaluation of historical and contemporary conflicts.
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Operation Gladio's Role in Cold War
- Operation Gladio was conceived as a clandestine stay-behind force during the Cold War to combat a possible Soviet invasion in Europe.
- It involved paramilitary groups trained to operate without direct contact with handlers, relying on pre-existing fascist and anti-communist networks primarily in Italy.
Cold War as Perpetual Conflict
- The Cold War wasn't a period of peace but a sustained crisis marked by ideological and military conflict.
- Both NATO and Warsaw Pact forces prepared for rapid escalation, with stay-behind forces crucial for asymmetric resistance.
NATO's Invasion Contingency Plan
- NATO understood a conventional Soviet invasion of Europe would overwhelm front-line defenses within days.
- Stay-behind networks like Gladio were essential as they could generate insurgencies to harass occupiers and buy time.