The Illegals

In "The Illegals," Shaun Walker presents a comprehensive history of Russia’s clandestine spy program, tracing its origins from the early Soviet era through to the current geopolitical tensions. The book delves into the KGB's unparalleled efforts in training deep-cover operatives known as "illegals," who undertook risky missions across the globe, especially during World War II and the Cold War. Supported by extensive interviews and archival research, Walker intertwines riveting personal narratives with broader themes of espionage, revealing how these hidden histories continue to shape contemporary Russia and its relationship with the West.