Since the start of the invasion of Ukraine, some 400 Russian intelligence operatives with diplomatic cover have been expelled from European countries.
According to British sources, this comprises about one half of all Russian spies stationed at its embassies and consulates in Europe. An estimated total of 800 'legals' had never been mentioned before.
It excludes the operational assets without diplomatic accreditation, and diplomatic immunity, the 'illegals', some of whom are known as 'sleepers', vulnerable to arrest and prosecution. They're reportedly few in number – but a total that's still unknown.
The 400 Russian operatives, declared persona non grata (PNG), is a co-ordinated response to Russia's invasion in February. They work for at least three separate agencies, often competing for dominance.
This time, their competency has seriously suffered in accurately assessing the probability of Russia invading and occupying Ukraine in a blitzkrieg, brief onslaught. Western observers have also suggested a deliberate bias in the advice provided to Putin, conclusions that match Putin's own expectations, no matter how far removed from reality.
(Pikemalt saab lugeda Eesti Elu 26. augusti 2022 paber- ja PDF/digilehest)
