Hot Money: Agent of Chaos Episode 5: A Different Set of Rules
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Jul 1, 2025 Boris Volodarsky, a historian specializing in Cold War spying and former Russian intelligence officer, offers a thrilling insider look into the world of espionage. He delves into the recruitment process of spies and what makes individuals vulnerable to manipulation. The discussion highlights the luxurious yet treacherous backdrop of Monaco, framed through Jan Marsalek's rise and fall. With tales of training and personal narratives, Boris reveals the complex dynamics of loyalty and ambition within the clandestine world of intelligence.
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Marsalek's Recruitment Party
- Jan Marsalek was introduced to Stas Pitlinsky, a Russian GRU-connected military man, during a yacht party in Nice in 2014.
- This encounter is considered a possible moment of his recruitment by Russian intelligence.
GRU Recruitment Process
- GRU recruitment starts with a long development phase to test candidates' suitability and vulnerabilities.
- Final recruitment decisions and methods are always dictated by Moscow intelligence leadership.
Recruitment Vulnerabilities
- Vulnerabilities for recruitment often include greed for money, ambition, or desire for status.
- Individuals are also targeted for the privileged access they may have to sensitive information or political connections.
