The Daily The C.I.A. Spy Inside the Kremlin
Sep 16, 2019
Julian E. Barnes, a national security reporter for The New York Times, dives into the dramatic extraction of a top CIA spy from Russia in 2017. He discusses the vital intelligence this informant provided about election interference, reshaping U.S. understanding of Russian aggression. Barnes shares his investigative journey, the complexities of reporting on intelligence, and the unexpected community reactions to discovering a local spy. The conversation also highlights the ongoing challenges in safeguarding spies amid growing political tensions.
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Reporter Visit
- Julian Barnes learned CNN was about to break his story about a CIA spy.
- He visited the spy's alleged house and encountered other reporters.
Neighbor Encounters
- Barnes interviewed neighbors, who confirmed details about the spy's family.
- One neighbor expressed pride, viewing the spy's actions as patriotic.
Spy Recruitment
- The CIA recruited a Russian diplomat decades ago, who rose to a crucial position.
- This informant provided key insights into Putin's thinking, a difficult task due to Putin's security measures.