What Are Russian Spies Really Doing?

Dear Black Bag Confidential Reader,
I’m sure it comes as no surprise that one of the principal targets for Russian intelligence operatives working in the United States is Washington, D. C.
In fact, there’s an old joke in the intelligence business that goes, ‘If you’re looking for a Russian operative, just go to a Russian restaurant in D. C. and look for the guy wearing a track suit.’
Obviously, it’s not quite that simple, but the reality is that Russia has dramatically increased their number of operatives in the field, focusing their attention on the U. S. – as demonstrated during the recent presidential election.
Last year, the FBI noticed a troubling trend with Russian diplomats. You see, the Bureau is responsible for tracking diplomats and suspected spies, on whom they often conduct surveillance (and Russia does the same thing to our diplomats in their country).
It’s often referred to as the ‘gentlemen’s rules’ of spying, and diplomats typically know they are being followed. Although they would never do anything to intentionally disrespect the other country’s operatives.
However, lately, Russia seems to be ignoring the typical rules of respect and has been harassing U. S. diplomats in Russia. Additionally, the FBI recently has had difficulty keeping tabs on Russian diplomats or assumed spies who are operating in the U. S.

This post was published at Laissez Faire on Jun 29, 2017.