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The Story
‘I gave my life to the CIA. They betrayed me.’
Nov 26, 2024
Josie Ensor, the US Correspondent for The Times, explores the gripping tale of Blerim Skoro, who was approached by CIA agents while in prison post-9/11. The conversation delves into his perilous journey from being a reluctant spy to facing betrayal and deportation. With themes of loyalty, identity, and moral dilemmas, Skoro's dual existence between the CIA and al-Qaeda highlights the ethical complexities of espionage. His quest to reunite with family while navigating a dangerous world provides a thrilling narrative filled with personal and political challenges.
36:40
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Quick takeaways
- Blerim Skoro's journey into espionage began with an unexpected proposal from CIA agents, reflecting complex dynamics of loyalty and survival post-9/11.
- Despite his significant contributions to US intelligence, Skoro experienced betrayal when he was deported and left vulnerable after serving the agency's interests.
Deep dives
The Journey Begins: From Prison to Intelligence
A man named Blarim Skoro, imprisoned in Brooklyn shortly after the 9/11 attacks, received an unexpected offer from US intelligence agents. They proposed that he could potentially shorten his prison sentence by spying on fellow inmates, particularly Muslim prisoners. This opportunity arose partly because Blarim was deeply grateful to the US for its support during the conflict in Kosovo, believing he could repay that debt through his cooperation. Motivated by a desire to reunite with his wife and children, Blarim accepted the offer, paving the way for a tumultuous journey into the world of espionage.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode