The Spy in the Archive: How One Man Tried to Kill the KGB.

  • Published In: Publishers Weekly, 2025, v. 272, n. 42. P. 70 1 of 2

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 2

Abstract

The article focuses on the biography of Vasili Mitrokhin, a former KGB agent who became disillusioned with the Soviet government and defected to the West. Initially filled with patriotic zeal, Mitrokhin's perspective shifted after a career setback, leading him to view the KGB's activities as morally reprehensible. He meticulously transcribed and encoded sensitive information from the KGB archives, which he later presented to British and U.S. intelligence agencies. The biography also explores the implications of Mitrokhin's revelations for understanding the early Soviet Union and contrasts his life with that of Vladimir Putin, highlighting the divergent paths of their KGB careers. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Publishers Weekly. 2025/11, Vol. 272, Issue 42, p70
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0000-0019
  • Accession Number:189050271
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