Podcast Summary: The Rest Is Classified - Episode 49: "The Man Who Tried To Kill The KGB: A Traitor in the Kremlin (Ep 1)"

Introduction

In Episode 49 of The Rest Is Classified, hosts David McCloskey and Gordon Carrera delve into a riveting true espionage narrative centered around Vasily Matrokin, a high-ranking archivist within the KGB's Foreign Spy Service who ultimately betrays his organization. Drawing from Gordon Carrera’s upcoming book, Gordon the Spy in the Archive. How One Man Tried to Kill the KGB, this episode unravels Matrokin's complex motivations, daring actions, and the intricate maneuvers of MI6 to extract him and his invaluable archives from the clutches of the collapsing Soviet Union.

Setting the Stage: A Turbulent Lithuania, 1992

The episode opens on a stormy afternoon in Klaipeda, Lithuania, marking the 75th anniversary of the Soviet Union's revolution. A yellow minibus bearing the Baltic Tours sign arrives at the docks, unloading a group of suspiciously armed individuals. Among them is Vasily Matrokin, a senior archivist whose arrival heralds the beginning of a dramatic espionage saga.

David McCloskey introduces the scene with atmospheric detail:

"[00:07] David McCloskey: Tossing out my gunky laundry detergent bottle. Ooey, it's got that booty, that juicy boom boom, that gun right alive."

Matrokin’s Dilemma: From Archivist to Traitor

Matrokin, portrayed as a disgruntled and introverted figure, harbors a deep-seated hatred for the KGB. His tenure as the senior archivist grants him access to the organization's most guarded secrets. Over twelve years, from 1956 to 1984, he meticulously copies classified documents, driven by a blend of personal grievances and ideological convictions. His meticulous efforts culminate in a vast archive of intelligence that could potentially expose decades of KGB operations worldwide.

Gordon Carrera emphasizes Matrokin’s unique role:

"[05:23] Gordon Carrera: This is the nexus of the British Secret Intelligence Service and Russians. We've hit all of the squares on your bingo card, haven't we?"

MI6’s Post-Cold War Challenges

As the Cold War wanes, MI6 finds itself in an identity crisis. With the Soviet Union dissolving, the agency grapples with redefining its mission and assessing ongoing threats. The arrival of Matrokin introduces both an opportunity and a predicament: verifying his authenticity and determining the value of his information amidst a backdrop of skepticism towards new walk-ins.

David McCloskey provides insight into MI6's internal state:

"[14:08] David McCloskey: Yes, yes. And funnily enough, Russia House. So it's obviously the name of the Le Carre novel…"

The Unlikely Pair: MI6 Agents James and Robert

MI6 dispatches a seasoned agent, James, and an unconventional asset, Robert—a Russian-born individual deeply embedded within the agency. Robert possesses an uncanny ability to "smell" deceit, a skill honed through years of interacting with KGB operatives. Their mission: to evaluate Matrokin's claims and facilitate the transfer of his sensitive archives.

Gordon Carrera describes their dynamic:

"[24:41] Gordon Carrera: And this pairing had worked together quite a bit around that time…"

Matrokin’s Conditions: Family Safety and Public Disclosure

Upon meeting MI6, Matrokin presents two non-negotiable conditions. Firstly, he demands the safe extraction of his entire family, who remain unaware of his clandestine activities. Secondly, and unusually for a defector, he insists that his amassed archives be made public. This dual demand underscores his complex motivations—balancing personal desperation with a desire to dismantle the very institution he once served.

David McCloskey highlights the significance of these conditions:

"[43:16] David McCloskey: He wants his work published like any author…"

The Brink of Operation: Showdown at the Docks

As MI6 approves the plan to meet Matrokin’s demands, the episode sets the stage for a high-stakes extraction operation. The culmination of weeks of planning leads to a tense encounter at the Lithuanian docks in November 1992, where the fate of Matrokin, his family, and the explosive archives hangs in the balance.

Gordon Carrera builds suspense for the next episode:

"[45:11] David McCloskey: And here On that wonderfully Carreran cliffhanger. And when we come back next time for the thrilling conclusion of the Vasily Matrokin story, we'll see exactly how MI6 does it…"

Notable Quotes

• David McCloskey on Matrokin's mission:

  "[33:11] David McCloskey: It is also kind of fascinating that the idea is let's take our failures and give them the most wide reaching access in the organization."

• Gordon Carrera on Robert’s perception skills:

  "[25:50] Gordon Carrera: ...he could just tell from the aura someone gave off and the body language whether they were really a spy..."

Conclusion and Tease for Next Episode

The episode concludes with the looming extraction mission, leaving listeners eager to uncover how MI6 navigates the perilous task of rescuing Matrokin and securing his extensive archives. The narrative promises a blend of historical intrigue, personal drama, and the relentless pursuit of truth against formidable odds.

David McCloskey invites listeners back:

"[46:02] David McCloskey: We'll see you next time."

Final Thoughts

Episode 49 offers a compelling glimpse into the shadowy world of espionage, highlighting the intricate dance between defection, intelligence gathering, and agency operations in a post-Cold War landscape. Through detailed storytelling and insightful analysis, McCloskey and Carrera paint a vivid portrait of a man driven to betray an empire, setting the stage for an exhilarating continuation in the ensuing episodes.