Russian Nationalist Alexander Dugin Attends Daughter’s Funeral in Moscow
KYIV — In a stunning display of covert operations, Ukrainian spies used a hidden compartment in a pet carrier to conceal the components of a bomb that was detonated in an SUV near Moscow. The target of the attack was the daughter of Alexander Dugin, a Russian nationalist known for his aggressive stance toward Ukraine. This operation is just one example of the secret war Ukraine has been waging against Russia, utilizing tactics developed with the help of the CIA.
Ukraine’s domestic security service, the SBU, orchestrated the attack, according to officials familiar with the matter who have revealed details that were previously undisclosed. Over the past decade, Ukraine’s spy agencies, in close partnership with the CIA, have developed advanced capabilities to counter Russian aggression. This collaboration has involved training, equipment, and intelligence sharing on an unprecedented scale.
While Ukraine’s lethal operations have been primarily aimed at military targets, there have been instances of civilians being targeted, which has raised concerns about the country’s tactics. Some officials question the decision to assassinate Dugin’s daughter, arguing that there are more significant targets that should be neutralized. This kind of aggressive approach has drawn comparisons to Mossad, the Israeli spy service notorious for carrying out assassinations in other countries.
The CIA’s involvement in Ukraine’s security services has been kept under wraps until now. The agency has stressed that it has not been involved in targeted killings and has focused solely on enhancing Ukraine’s intelligence gathering capabilities. However, there are concerns about the potential risks and complications that Ukraine’s lethal operations could pose, especially in terms of its relations with other countries and its larger strategic goals.
In interviews with numerous intelligence officials, it has been revealed that both sides have maintained a careful distance between the CIA and Ukraine’s lethal operations. While the CIA has occasionally voiced objections, it has continued to support Ukraine’s efforts. There have been restrictions on collaborating operationally, with the emphasis being on intelligence gathering rather than direct involvement in designing the operations.
Despite the complexities and risks involved, the partnership between the CIA and Ukraine represents a significant shift in their relationship. The collaboration began after Ukraine’s political protests in 2014, and it has continued to strengthen over the years, even surviving the impeachment scandal involving former President Donald Trump.
The extent of Ukraine’s secret war against Russia and its relationship with the CIA is a testament to their determination to defend themselves against Russian aggression. However, the tactics employed and the potential consequences raise important questions about the future of Ukraine’s operations and its long-term strategic goals.
This article is based on interviews with dozens of intelligence officials who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. The CIA declined to comment on the matter.
