
RUSI Journal Radio
S5E1: A New Approach to Sabotage
Nov 4, 2024
Elena Grossfeld, a PhD candidate researching intelligence organizations, and Magda Long, a Visiting Research Fellow at King's College London, dive into the transformation of Russian sabotage tactics in today's gig-economy. They discuss the recruitment of locals in Europe and ethical contrasts between democratic and authoritarian strategies in covert operations. The conversation also touches on the digital age's impact on sabotage, highlighting how technology drives modern espionage and the vital role of public awareness in national security.
39:37
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of Russian sabotage activities now employs local individuals, blurring the lines of accountability and complicating counteraction efforts.
- Public awareness and collaboration among intelligence agencies and law enforcement are essential for effectively mitigating foreign sabotage threats.
Deep dives
Changing Nature of Sabotage
Contemporary sabotage activities have evolved significantly, particularly regarding the methods employed and the intentions behind them. Traditionally, sabotage was a high-risk covert action intended to create chaos and uncertainty without drawing direct attribution to the perpetrator. Modern approaches have shifted, especially noted within Russian operations, where sabotage is often executed by individuals hired from within targeted nations rather than highly trained operatives. This reflects a new phase of operational tactics that rely on local individuals who may be unaware of their involvement in a broader sabotage strategy.
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