The Russian Officer Secretly Working for Ukraine
Summary
Reporter Matthew Luxmore details the story of Lev Stupnikov, a Russian officer who defected to Ukraine and acted as a deep-cover spy for seven months. Stupnikov provided critical intelligence that led to the deaths of approximately 300 Russian soldiers, including high-ranking officers, before escaping through a minefield to join the Russian Volunteer Corps. The episode explores his disillusionment with the Russian military, his mother’s efforts to contact Ukrainian handlers, and the complex realities of fighting for the opposing side.
Topics discussed
Stupnikov's first strike: Betraying his unit in Ukraine
The scale of Stupnikov's sabotage and its impact
Show introduction and sponsor segments
Stupnikov's early life and military training in Siberia
The 2022 invasion and the end of his civilian plans
Deployment to the front line and role as signals officer
Disillusionment with Russian soldiers and propaganda
His mother's efforts and contact with Ukrainian handler Karpenko
Coordinating strikes and the success of the first operation
Growing suspicion among Russian commanders and the 'Shterlitz' moment
Planning the exfiltration and sponsor break
Crossing the minefield at night to defect to Ukraine
Arrival in Ukraine and the failed attempt to bring his wife
Captivity and the offer to join the Russian Volunteer Corps
Joining the RVC and becoming a symbol in Ukraine
Reunion with his mother and returning to the front line
Live show announcement, credits, and closing sponsors
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