Summary
Overview
This episode chronicles KGB officer Oleg Gordievsky's dangerous double life as an MI6 spy during a critical period of Cold War tension. After being recalled to Moscow and reassigned to menial work, Gordievsky eventually secures a posting to London where he provides crucial intelligence about Soviet paranoia regarding NATO's Able Archer war games in 1983—intelligence that reveals how close the world came to nuclear war. The episode culminates with Gordievsky's promotion to KGB station chief in London, even as the CIA begins investigating MI6's mysterious Soviet source, and Gordievsky receives an ominous summons back to Moscow.
The Mole Hunt Begins
After returning to Moscow from Copenhagen, Gordievsky finds himself sidelined to writing KGB history as punishment for divorcing his wife. His isolation deepens when KGB leadership, with advice from legendary British defector Kim Philby, announces that a traitor within their ranks is responsible for recent agent arrests in Norway. Gordievsky realizes that every time MI6 acts on his intelligence, the net tightens around him, yet he's trapped in Moscow with only the slimmest escape plan.
- Gordievsky relegated to non-job writing KGB history after returning to Moscow, isolated from British spymasters
- KGB announces Norwegian agent arrested due to inside information, with Kim Philby believing the traitor is among them
- Every MI6 action based on Gordievsky's intelligence makes it easier for KGB mole hunters to identify him
" He believes the pattern of events suggests the traitor may be in this room, sitting here amongst us. "
Preparing for London
Two years into the mole hunt, Gordievsky begins preparing for a potential London posting by reviewing classified KGB files on British agents and assets. Despite raising suspicions from a superior about his diligent file review, he discovers explosive information about Labour Party leader Michael Foot's past KGB connections. His methodical preparation demonstrates both his commitment to MI6 and the constant risk of exposure he faces even in routine activities.
- Gordievsky secures English language training and eventual approval for London posting despite KGB reluctance
- British diplomatic visa approved in record time, raising KGB eyebrows
- Discovers files showing Labour Party leader Michael Foot was considered a former KGB agent of influence
" I told you to stop swatting and do something useful, like write a report. "
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