US Naval Institute Press - Tradecraft, Tactics, and Dirty Tricks: Russian Intelligence and Putin's Sec | Paperback | First Edition

Step into the covert world of Russian espionage with this revealing insider’s account of how the Russian Intelligence Services (RIS) operate across the globe. Drawing on years of CIA field experience, Sean M. Wiswesser exposes the tactics, tradecraft, and mindset of the RIS—making this a must-read for anyone fascinated by spies, sabotage, and the high-stakes intelligence war between Russia and the West.

Unmask the shadowy world of Russian espionage with this riveting exploration of the Russian Intelligence Services (RIS) and their global clandestine operations. With decades of experience as a CIA operations officer, author Sean M. Wiswesser takes readers deep into the heart of Maskirovka—the Russian art of denial, deception, and manipulation. This book is more than an exposé; it’s a toolkit for understanding and countering the RIS’ manipulative tactics.

Key Features/Benefits

• Insider's account exposing the tactics, tradecraft, and mindset of the Russian Intelligence Services (RIS).
• Written by Sean M. Wiswesser, a former CIA operations officer with unparalleled expertise.
• Explores Maskirovka: the Russian art of denial, deception, and manipulation.
• Details tactics used by the SVR, GRU, and FSB, including double agents, surveillance, honeytraps, sabotage, active measures, and assassinations.
• Analyzes the RIS roles in the Russo-Ukraine War.
• Breaks down ten key elements of RIS tradecraft, offering insights for intelligence professionals, academics, business leaders, and private citizens.
• Candid, plain-speaking style designed to inform and galvanize readers.

Specifications

• Author: Sean Michael Wiswesser
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition: First Edition
• Language: English
• Print Length: 288 pages
• Publication Date: April 21, 2026
• ISBN 13: 979-8892410199
• Dimensions: 15.24 x 5.08 x 22.86 cm (152x51x229mm)
• Item Weight: 430 g
• Publisher: Naval Institute Press
• Best Sellers Rank: #34 in Espionage Biographies

Gain a unique perspective on the global reach of Russian intelligence directly from an expert who sat across from Russian officers and used their own methods against them. This essential guide provides the knowledge needed to understand and counter modern espionage threats.