A very interesting read awaits those with an interest in Russian or Cold War history or espionage.

This book is extremely thorough, so be ready for a long journey through its pages. The writing style remains consistent throughout. However, my flagging interest at the midway point was due to my general lack of interest in the post-Stalin Cold War period.

The notes secreted from the archives and published in the West uncover some truly significant historical facts. In a broader context, it becomes evident that the Soviet system was never able to achieve sustainable reality. Terror and deception were the means by which the system managed to propagate itself. That's not to deny that there were some great achievements in the USSR. But the inhumanity, impracticality, and inefficiencies of the system are plain for anyone who can objectively observe historical facts. Only utopians and revisionists believe that it was not the Soviet system and ideology that were flawed, but rather the practical policies of the USSR, especially the horrors of Stalinism.

Yet, to simply dismiss the KGB (in any of its forms) as propagandists of a dying state would be overly simplistic. There are several areas where KGB actions caused enormous harm to the West. This includes spreading the belief that the JFK assassination was a plot by American intelligence agencies or that the CIA created the AIDS virus in a lab and deliberately infected blacks. These and other operations have fueled the conspiracy theory thinking so prevalent among many people today and have propagated mistrust in our government and our fellow citizens.

But these actions are the natural outcome of an agency born out of suspicion, by men who lived the shadowy lives of underground revolutionaries. I believe the paranoia endemic to the Soviet regime, though partly a natural result of the Russian character, was primarily a consequence of the revolutionary nature. Years of clandestine meetings, arrests, informing on friends, exile, and criminal conspiracy created the impetus to use the secret services (Cheka, KGB, etc.) as a primary tool of the state to monitor and protect political doctrine. The numerous examples of the great resources dedicated to discrediting expatriate Soviet artists and writers who were critical of the USSR are a perfect illustration of how diseased the Soviet system was. Plotting to maim a defected ballerina is hardly a sign of a strong state or a successful culture.

Finally, I think this book is an excellent companion to our current conflict with Russia. Mr. Putin was a KGB man, and his thinking is deeply rooted in the culture of the KGB. I believe a review of this book and the history of KGB operations it presents offers a valuable insight into how Russia operates today. Before reading this book, I thought reports that the FSB bombed a Russian apartment complex to create a casus belli were mere conspiracy theories. After reading this book and gaining a unique understanding of the KGB culture it provides, I now believe it is entirely possible that the FSB was responsible for bombing civilians as a pretext for the Chechen war in an effort to reestablish the greatness of the Russian state by disaffected members of Russia's security services. If so, that conspiracy would be entirely in line with the actions taken by the KGB so frequently in Soviet history, using cynical and manipulative means to suppress the human spirit.

It is truly very interesting. However, it can be incredibly dry at times. This combination of interest and dryness makes the overall experience rather unique. On one hand, there are aspects that draw you in and capture your attention, making you eager to learn more. But on the other hand, there are those moments when it feels as if the subject matter has lost its luster and become rather dull. It's like a rollercoaster ride of emotions and engagement. You might find yourself excitedly delving into a particular topic, only to be met with a section that seems to drag on and on. Despite this, the interesting parts are often enough to keep you going, curious to see what else lies ahead.

A Crazy World of East and West

In today's globalized era, the world seems to be a crazy blend of the East and the West.

The cultures, traditions, and values of these two regions are colliding and interacting in ways that are both fascinating and sometimes chaotic.

On one hand, we have the ancient and profound civilizations of the East, with their rich history, unique art forms, and deep spiritual beliefs.

On the other hand, the West brings modernity, innovation, and a more individualistic and consumerist lifestyle.

This combination creates a world where we can see people wearing traditional Eastern clothing while using the latest Western technology.

We can taste exotic Eastern cuisines in Western cities and listen to Western music with an Eastern influence.

The crazy world of the East and West is constantly evolving, and it is up to us to embrace the differences and find a way to coexist and thrive in this diverse and exciting environment.

Discipline and determination are essential. Some might argue that it is better to use this as a reference, like a pool one can dip into from time to time. However, I firmly believe that one must read it from cover to cover right from the start. I didn't find this task to be easy.

It is truly a treasure trove of information, and I'm extremely glad that I took the plunge. There are many eye-opening moments, especially if you are as passionate about the subject as I am.

Counter-espionage, in my opinion, is of utmost priority. It is 'The Defence of the Realm'.

The book, for me, serves as evidence that the work of SIS and the KGB's First Directorate (foreign intelligence gathering) is nothing more than a game. It is a game played by many at an exorbitant cost. Neither side wants to lose this game, yet they also don't seem to have a strong desire to win. They play the game simply for the sake of playing. But what does it really achieve? Absolutely nothing.

Science Fiction? Maybe!

In movies, we see spies infiltrating governments, microphones in the most unexpected places, people being blackmailed by photos taken in the most unthinkable situations, military secrets being passed around, betrayals, double agents... but is it really like that?

No... the reality is even worse!

In this book, the espionage activities of the KGB are described in great detail, and the picture that emerges is very similar to Orwell's 1984.
The book can be heavy at times due to the level of detail with which the individual spies, controllers, and actions are treated, but it is an important document for understanding the history of the Soviet Union, the Cold War, and the relations with the West.

Finally, the appendix dedicated to the operations and spies of the KGB in Italy is very interesting. At times, it is shocking.
This book offers a unique perspective on a topic that is often shrouded in mystery and secrecy. It allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complex world of espionage and the role it played in shaping history.
Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating subject, this book is definitely worth a read.
It provides a wealth of information and insights that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
So, if you want to know the truth about the KGB and its activities, pick up this book and prepare to be amazed.
You will never look at the world of espionage the same way again.

Overall, it is very good.

However, it can be a little tedious due to all the Russian names.

The story seems to have a lot of potential, and I am really looking forward to volume 2.

I hope that in the next volume, the author will be able to maintain the same level of quality while also making the reading experience even more engaging.

Perhaps the author could find a way to make the Russian names more accessible or provide some additional context to help readers better understand them.

Overall, I am very impressed with this work and can't wait to see what comes next.

Mis respetos por el trabajo de recopilarla, con el riesgo que supuso. Aunque la información recopilada pueda ser de gran interés, la forma en que se presenta hace que sea difícil de digerir. El texto, sorprendentemente, se vuelve aburrido debido a la manera en que está escrito. Esto puede ser un problema, ya que la presentación de la información es tan importante como el contenido mismo.

Supongo que algún día alguien se dará cuenta de la importancia de estructurar la información de forma que resulte agradable de leer. Quizás se debería prestar más atención a la organización, la sintaxis y la elección de palabras. Además, se podrían utilizar elementos visuales para hacer el texto más atractivo.

Mi nota: 4/10. Esto indica que, aunque la información tiene potencial, la forma en que se presenta necesita mejorar. Es importante recordar que un texto bien escrito no solo transmite información, sino que también engage al lector y lo hace disfrutar de la lectura.

Long ago, I started reading a particular book.

However, as time went on, I had to switch over to the audiobook version.

I read it for a class and found it to be very interesting indeed.

If you have a penchant for reading chronologically serialized individual stories of highly productive and deep-penetrating spies who supported an ultimately unsustainable government, then this book is truly great.

It offers a unique perspective and takes you on a thrilling journey through the world of espionage.

On the other hand, if this doesn't quite tickle your fancy, then perhaps you might consider reading some Ian Fleming.

His works are also renowned for their exciting and engaging plots that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Whether you choose the original book or opt for Ian Fleming's offerings, you're bound to have an enjoyable reading experience.

This piece seems to lean more towards a reference book rather than a comprehensive historical summary of the KGB. It is filled to the brim with specific dates, codenames, and what feels like a clinical enumeration of the diverse KGB measures implemented across the globe.

Had this been in the hands of a talented spy novelist, it truly could have been brought to life with some undeniably captivating situations. I, for one, was eager to see these explored in greater detail.

As it stands, however, it makes for a rather difficult read. On late evenings, as I slogged through it, I found myself repeatedly nodding off. While I can certainly recommend it as a valuable historical document, I cannot do the same if what you're seeking is an engrossing spy story. It simply lacks the narrative charm and excitement that would draw in readers looking for a thrilling tale of espionage.

Perhaps with some additional narrative flourishes and a more engaging writing style, this could have been a more captivating and accessible work. As it is, it remains a somewhat dry and challenging read for those not solely interested in the historical facts and figures related to the KGB.

This, like one of the quotes on the cover suggests, is an impressive volume.

When you think about how it was acquired, its importance becomes even more profound. Mitrokhin truly saved and opened up a vast amount of history with this work, and Andrew presents it all... in a certain way.

Overall, I thought the book was very well-written. I appreciate the organization of choosing specific topics and guiding the reader through the timeline, rather than presenting everything all at once. There is an incredible number of names and codenames to remember, so at times it can be a bit challenging to follow along. However, you gradually get used to it. I found it memorable, although some of the aspects that I was particularly interested in, such as operations in the Central Asian republics, Afghanistan, and Africa, are in the second volume. Despite this, it offers a fascinating history. As someone who is truly intrigued by intelligence, this is a great read.

In conclusion, this was a good read. It is a large volume with dense print, but after finishing it, I feel a sense of accomplishment and a whole new understanding of the Soviet system. I will definitely read the second volume if I can obtain a copy. 8/10

The most thorough book I have ever read on the KGB and its history is truly a remarkable piece of work.

It delves deep into the inner workings, the operations, and the evolution of this infamous organization.

The author has painstakingly researched and presented a comprehensive account that leaves no stone unturned.

If you have even the slightest interest in the history of the KGB and Russian activities, I highly recommend this book.

It offers valuable insights into the political, social, and military landscapes of the time.

You will be captivated by the stories and events that shaped the KGB and its influence on the world stage.

Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about this fascinating topic, this book is a must-read.

It will expand your knowledge and understanding of a significant chapter in history.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the secrets and mysteries of the KGB.

Pick up this book today and embark on a journey through time.

This comprehensive analysis of the KGB's activities over the decades offers profound insights into the regime's successes and failures in a wide range of operations.

The book is structured in a way that is conducive to scholarship. It divides the content into themes that are explored throughout the entire Soviet period, from assassinations to the infiltration of "illegals" to "S&T" theft.

However, this structure sometimes makes it difficult to follow the lines and gain a more holistic understanding. For example, it can be challenging to understand Gorbachev's relationship with the KGB or the impact of Andropov's leadership style, as the coverage of these time periods is fragmented across thematic chapters.

The prose is informative and of excellent quality, and I have learned a great deal from it. It is not all about cloak and dagger and glamour, but nearly every story and detail is fascinating. I greatly enjoyed reading about the KGB in this way and would recommend it to those who are interested.

It serves as an excellent companion piece to other prominent works focusing on the CIA or MI6, and there are many parallels to current affairs. Its reliance on archival materials makes it even more compelling and credible.