FBI releases Russian spy videos from “Operation Ghost Stories” (VIDEO)
Former Russian spy Anna Chapman was at the center of the biggest spy crisis between the United States and Russia since the Cold War as one of the US-based ‘sleeper’ agents who were exchanged in a dramatic spy swap.
The FBI on Monday released a treasure trove of surveillance videos, documents and photos of its investigation into Russian spies in the United States.
The decade-long case, dubbed "Operation Ghost Stories," culminated in the arrests of 10 Russian spies last year, and "provided a chilling reminder that espionage on U.S. soil did not disappear when the Cold War ended," the FBI said on its website.
The material was released by the FBI after a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
"The highly publicized case also offered a rare glimpse into the sensitive world of counterintelligence and the FBI’s efforts to safeguard the nation from those who would steal our vital secrets," the FBI said.
More from GlobalPost: Russia: Another billionaire stands up to the Kremlin
In one of the FBI videos, then-Russian spy Anna Chapman — who has since hosted a weekly TV show in Russia — meets an undercover agent at a coffee shop in New York City.
There is no paywall on the story you just read because a community of dedicated listeners and readers have contributed to keep the global news you rely on free and accessible for all. Will you join the 319 donors who have supported The World so far? From now until Dec. 31, your gift will help us unlock a $67,000 match. Donate today to double your impact!