
The Hidden Third Russian Sex Spy | The Hidden Third with Mariana van Zeller
Nov 19, 2025
Aliia Roza, a former Russian intelligence operative, reveals her shocking journey into the world of 'sexpionage.' Trained in honeytrap techniques, she shares harrowing tales of manipulation and abuse within the Russian intelligence community. From her early life in post-Soviet Moscow to her defection after falling for a target, Aliia discusses the psychological tactics used to craft operatives. She also delves into the dark reality of exploitation in espionage, the moral dilemmas faced during covert missions, and her efforts to gain safety through public exposure.
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Sexpionage Is Institutionalized Intelligence
- Sexpionage (honeypot/honeytrap) is a structured intelligence program that trains women to seduce targets for information.
- Aliia Roza traces its origins to British methods and formalization under Soviet agencies like the NKVD/KGB.
Childhood Shaped By Military Patriotism
- Aliia Roza grew up in Moscow after 1991 with a military father and experienced bullying as the only Asian girl in school.
- Her family moved between Soviet republics and later stayed in Russia, shaping her patriotic upbringing.
Psychology Is The Core Tool Of Recruitment
- Russian intelligence emphasizes psychological techniques and human manipulation in training.
- Aliia says teaching communication in schools could help people spot manipulation and avoid scams.


