(PatriotNewsDaily.com) – FBI Chief, Christopher Wray, expressed deep concerns on Thursday, emphasizing that the U.S. is still grappling with a significant number of Russian intelligence operatives on its soil, even after considerable efforts to counteract them.
At a gathering hosted by the International Spy Museum, Wray delved into the complexities of managing the pervasive threat of Russian espionage. “Despite our relentless efforts, the U.S. continues to face a substantial presence of Russian intelligence personnel, with whom we consistently cross paths, and we’re devoted to counteracting them at every turn,” he stated.
Wray was candid in his acknowledgment of the progress made by U.S. intelligence agencies. He noted that the concerted efforts over the recent years have led to measurable success in curbing Russian espionage activities. However, he also emphasized the need to remain vigilant given the magnitude of Moscow’s espionage infrastructure and the multifaceted objectives they aim to achieve.
Drawing attention to the broader geopolitical landscape to offer context, Wray remarked, “One doesn’t need to look further than the ongoing tumult in Ukraine to gain insights into Russia’s global intentions.” He underscored the significance of understanding the interconnectedness of Russia’s overt and covert actions, emphasizing that the entities engaging in espionage on U.S. soil are often the same as those involved in aggressive maneuvers in places like Ukraine.
Adding another layer to the evolving tactics of Russian intelligence, Wray pointed out their increasing reliance on intermediaries, commonly referred to as “cut-outs”, in their espionage endeavors. These individuals act as go-betweens, often complicating counter-intelligence operations. He underscored this point by bringing up the 2020 arrest of Hector Alejandro Cabrera Fuentes, a Mexican national apprehended by U.S. authorities. Fuentes was found to be covertly working in tandem with Moscow, exemplifying the intricate web of international espionage the U.S. is up against.
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