
NatSec Matters
Catching the 'Queen of Cuba' Spy: Peter Lapp
May 1, 2024
Retired FBI Special Agent Peter Lapp discusses 'Queen of Cuba', a book detailing Ana Montes, a spy for Cuba for 17 years. They delve into Montes's audacious activities, her arrest post 9/11, and her current whereabouts, exploring the challenges of investigating a female high-performing spy and her unconventional espionage methods.
44:47
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Quick takeaways
- Anna Montes' evolution from a recruited asset to a crucial spy for Cuba based on aligned anti-US sentiments and access to classified information.
- The FBI's vital role in counterintelligence efforts to detect and neutralize threats, highlighting the agency's mission and partnerships.
Deep dives
Anna Montes' Background and Recruitment by Cuban Intelligence
Anna Montes, an American born in Germany to a military family, was recruited by the Cubans during her studies. She met Martha, a Cuban intelligence agent, at Johns Hopkins, sharing anti-US foreign policy views. Initially, Martha had a spotting role due to limited access to classified information, until Anna, aligned with her views, became their pivotal asset.
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