Shortly after taking power in Moscow, Vladimir Putin began consolidating his authority over the Russian intelligence services that had long been deeply embedded in Russian and Soviet politics and a pervasive influence in society. The degree to which he succeeded was striking, ultimately transforming them into organizational assets that remained effective at what they did but were entirely loyal to him.
But how has Putin employed those intelligence services since taking power. Around the world—from the war in Ukraine to influence operations in Africa and the Middle East to information campaigns intended to subvert Western democracies—what can we discern about the role of the organizations? How do they fit into the broader Russian defense and security establishment? And what does it all mean for a future, post-Putin Russia?
To explore these questions and more, John Amble is joined on this episode of the MWI Podcast by Sean Wiswesser. A thirty-year national security veteran, including extensive experience with Russian intelligence as a CIA senior operations officer, he is the author of Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks: Russian Intelligence and Putin’s Secret War.
The MWI Podcast is produced through an endowment generously funded by the West Point Class of 1974. You can listen to this episode of the podcast below, and if you aren’t already subscribed, be sure to find it on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss an episode. While you’re there, please take just a moment to leave the podcast a rating or give it a review!
