The Rest Is Classified Why Do Russian Spies Interfere in Global Politics?
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Apr 23, 2026 
Tom Bradby, novelist, screenwriter and former ITV political editor, joins to unpack Russian interference in Europe and beyond. He traces murky operations in Hungary, discusses risks to NATO and intelligence-sharing, and contrasts Russian political meddling with China’s tactics. Short, sharp conversations about spies, money and modern geopolitics.
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Russia Uses Political Interference To Weaken NATO
- Russian interference in politics is widespread across Europe and not limited to 2016-style hacks or leaks.
- Tom Bradby frames interference as a toolkit aimed at peeling allies away from NATO and poisoning democratic debate, citing Hungary and 2016 as examples.
Hungary Case Included A Reported Fake Assassination Plot
- Tom Bradby recounts reporting on Hungary where Russian SVR allegedly planned deep interference including a fake assassination to boost Viktor Orbán.
- He cites leaks and a Washington Post piece describing 'Operation Game Changer' and intensive Russian involvement in that election.
Agencies Hesitate To Share Toxic Political Intelligence
- Political sensitivities make intelligence services hesitant to share explosive findings about compromised politicians.
- Gordon and David explain agencies may withhold or mask details fearing politicisation or exposure to hostile White House actors.
