Welcoming defectors and spreading paranoia within the Russian security state

The risk of erecting a new Iron Curtain by the West to keep Russians out is acknowledged, driven by the fear of Russian agents. There is a shift from welcoming defectors as escapees to encouraging them to stay where they are or offering them passports and citizenship. This strategy not only spreads paranoia within the Russian security state but also forces them to be on high alert for potential defectors willing to trade Kremlin secrets for a comfortable life outside the country.