Over the years, Geneva has been singled out for Switzerland’s lax banking regulations and rigorous neutrality. New York is another for being the world’s financial capital and seat of the UN providing diplomatic cover for thousands. Vienna has been named for its closeness to the former Soviet Bloc and its lax regulations in regards to spying.
Berlin, the backdrop for films and books, was seen as the epicentre of Cold War spying. With the looming presence of the Berlin Wall, it symbolized East-West tensions. And, of course the Glienicke Bridge – Bridge of Spies – the site of famous prisoner exchanges. Faux nostalgia made Berlin the stage of dramatic spy activity.
For focusing on the U.S.A., Mexico City has been named as a Russian (also Chinese, Iranian and Cuban) spy destination. It’s close to its target. But why not Canada? It’s thought to be less aggressive in counterintelligence than its neighbour. But Canada’s intelligence service, CSIS, sharing info with its US colleagues, has been a capable counterfoil.
Brussels is now the serious contender for the ‘Spy Capital’ title. It’s reported that the city is the operational base for some 250 Chinese and 200 Russian spies. The count is not unrealistic. Brussels hosts both the European Union and NATO.
The E.U. External Action (SEAE) has warned European diplomats about specific locales in the European quarter, such as a restaurant and popular coffee shop close to the European Commission and the SEAE building.
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(Pikemalt saab lugeda Eesti Elu 24. märtsi 2023 paber- ja digilehest)
