AT THE CENTER

Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks: Russian Intelligence and Putin’s Secret War

On May 5, 2026, the Center for the National Interest hosted a discussion of Sean Wiswesser’s new book, Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks: Russian Intelligence and Putin’s Secret War. Wiswesser, who retired after a nearly 30-year career in the CIA, has written a fascinating book that demystifies how the Russian intelligence services operate; their strengths

"The cold, hard truth is that tariffs are bad for the GOP and even worse for America."

-Jacob Heilbrunn

“The reality of this new era is that energy consumption is growing globally in an 'all of the above' manner. Renewable energy is seeing explosive growth, but there is still some growth in oil demand and even coal, and strong demand growth for natural gas and LNG.”

-Greg Priddy

“The United States will face grave challenges if its adversaries establish hegemony in either Europe…or Asia…and establish de facto control of their polities and resources. America’s alliance relationships are critical in preventing that outcome.”

-Paul J. Saunders

“Throughout its history, Russia has strived to be accepted by the West. Yet, today, it is isolated, serves as China’s junior partner, and includes as its main partners rogues like North Korea and Iran.”

-Andrew C. Kuchins