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Russian spies, in Ukraine and elsewhere

LAAS LEIVAT

Since the start of the invasion of Ukraine, some 400 Russian intelligence operatives with diplomatic cover have been expelled from European countries.

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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.

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