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Vladimir VetrovAn employee of the First Main Directorate of the KGB of the USSR (PGU)
Date of Birth: 19.10.1932
Country:  Russia |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Recruitment by French Intelligence
- Challenging Predicament
- Return to Moscow and Access to Sensitive Information
- Operation 'Farewell'
- Exposure and Betrayal
- Espionage Trial and Death Sentence
- Legacy and Film Adaptation
Early Life and Career
Agent of the KGB's First Chief DirectorateVladimir Vetrov was a Soviet intelligence officer who worked for the First Chief Directorate of the KGB (PGU). His primary mission was to acquire Western technology for the Soviet Union. In 1965, Vetrov traveled to France under the cover of an engineer for the Soviet trade mission.
Recruitment by French Intelligence
'Line T' Cooperation and the DCRIIn France, Vetrov established contact with Jacques Prevost, an employee of the electronics company Thomson CSF. Vetrov initially sought Prevost's assistance in obtaining information about new technologies. However, Prevost was working with the French intelligence agency, the DST (Direction de la Surveillance du Territoire). Recognizing an opportunity, the DST began to pursue Vetrov as a potential recruit.
Challenging Predicament
Embarrassing Incident and VulnerabilityDuring his time in France, Vetrov found himself in a compromising situation. After crashing his official car while intoxicated, he sought help from his French contact to avoid embarrassment at the embassy. His contact informed the DST, leaving Vetrov with a secret that could be exploited. However, the DST failed to seize the opportunity as Vetrov's assignment came to an end.
Return to Moscow and Access to Sensitive Information
New Position and Exposure to SecretsDespite his removal from operational work, Vetrov was assigned to a department within the PGU that analyzed scientific and technical information acquired from abroad. This position provided him with access to sensitive information. In 1981, Vetrov reconnected with his former French acquaintance, Prevost.
Operation 'Farewell'
Secret Documents and Western AllianceResponding to Prevost's suggestion to share confidential information, Vetrov began to transmit classified documents to the DST. Over the next year, he provided almost 4,000 secrets, including the complete official list of 250 Line X officers deployed worldwide as diplomats. Vetrov's information exposed the Soviet Union's extensive network of scientific and technical espionage.
Exposure and Betrayal
Fatal Encounter and MurderIn February 1982, Vetrov became suspicious of being followed and stabbed a KGB officer who approached his car. The officer subsequently died. Vetrov's actions drew attention to him, leading to his arrest and conviction for murder.
Espionage Trial and Death Sentence
Treason Charge and ExecutionIn August 1984, Vetrov was accused of treason and espionage. On December 14, 1984, the Supreme Court of the USSR sentenced him to death. The sentence was carried out on February 23, 1985.
Legacy and Film Adaptation
'Farewell' Remains a MysteryVetrov's betrayal had a significant impact on Soviet intelligence, leading to the expulsion of numerous officers from Western countries. The exact motives behind his actions are still a subject of speculation. In 2011, a French film titled "Farewell" was released, loosely based on the events surrounding Vetrov's case.
