The Incredible Story of Oleg Gordievsky: From Soviet Spy to British Asset

TLDROleg Gordievsky, a former KGB spy, risked everything to work as a double agent for the British intelligence service, MI6. Through his brave actions, he provided valuable intelligence on Soviet agents and operations in Europe. After years of undercover work, Gordievsky was relocated to London, where he continued to provide critical information for the British. This is his remarkable story of courage, betrayal, and the fight for freedom.

Key insights

🔍Gordievsky's disillusionment with the Soviet system led him to become a double agent.

💣By providing top-secret intelligence to the British, Gordievsky put his life at risk.

🌍Gordievsky's information helped expose Soviet agents and operations in Europe.

🇷🇺Gordievsky's actions made him a traitor in the eyes of the Soviet Union.

🇬🇧His relocation to London allowed him to continue his work as a British asset.

Q&A

What motivated Gordievsky to become a double agent?

Gordievsky became disillusioned with the Soviet system, leading him to work for the British and fight for freedom.

How did Gordievsky provide intelligence to the British?

Gordievsky smuggled top-secret microfilm documents from the Soviet embassy and passed them to his British handlers.

Did Gordievsky's actions put his life at risk?

Yes, Gordievsky faced tremendous risks by betraying the Soviet Union and providing information to the British intelligence service.

What impact did Gordievsky's intelligence have?

Gordievsky's information exposed Soviet agents and operations in Europe, significantly impacting the intelligence landscape.

Was Gordievsky considered a traitor in the Soviet Union?

Yes, Gordievsky was seen as a traitor by the Soviet Union for his actions against the country and the KGB.

Timestamped Summary

00:15Oleg Gordievsky, a former KGB spy, risked everything to work as a double agent for the British intelligence service, MI6.

03:00Gordievsky's disillusionment with the Soviet system led him to become a double agent.

06:16By providing top-secret intelligence to the British, Gordievsky put his life at risk.

09:20Gordievsky's information helped expose Soviet agents and operations in Europe.

12:40Gordievsky's actions made him a traitor in the eyes of the Soviet Union.

13:38His relocation to London allowed him to continue his work as a British asset.