Today in Focus Sabotage and secret identities: Russia’s spy network
17 snips
May 5, 2025 
Shaun Walker, The Guardian's former Moscow correspondent and author of 'The Illegals', dives into the gripping world of Russia's espionage tactics. He shares the dramatic story of undercover spies Anna and Artem Dulcev, revealing the emotional toll on their family. The discussion tracks the evolution of the 'illegals' program from the Bolshevik era to today, highlighting the rigorous training spies undergo. Walker also explores recent Russian sabotage incidents and the complex human side of espionage, uncovering the reality behind secret identities.
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The Dulcev Spy Family Revealed
- Anna and Artem Dulcev lived undercover as Argentinians for years, posing as a family with two children.
- They were finally arrested in Slovenia and exchanged back to Russia, revealing the deep cover nature of illegals.
Illegals Program's Historical Roots
- The Russian illegal spy program dates back to Lenin's underground Bolshevik movement before 1917.
- Illegals evolved through decades reflecting Russia's interaction with the West, revealing political priorities.
Rigorous Illegals Recruitment Process
- Recruitment for illegals is a lengthy, multi-year process including personality tests and mini missions.
- Training includes cultural immersion, political indoctrination, and skills to create loyal yet deceptive operatives.
