Near and Distant Neighbors

Drawing on overlooked Russian sources, Haslam explores the vital role of military intelligence and special services in sustaining the Soviet state, especially after Stalin's death during the Cold War era. The book highlights how the Soviet regime shifted from ideological recruitment to tactics like blackmail and bribery, ultimately leading to Western successes in the espionage struggle. This revealing account provides a new perspective on Soviet intelligence, offering insights into the roots of Vladimir Putin's contemporary power.