covert operations, political influence, foreign elections from "summary" of The World Was Going Our Way by Christopher Andrew
The KGB's First Chief Directorate combined the promotion of political influence with covert operations to influence foreign elections. The KGB's main target was Western Europe. During the 1970s and 1980s, the KGB sought to exploit the rise of anti-establishment political parties in Europe. They aimed to promote the interests of the Soviet Union by supporting parties and politicians who were sympathetic to Moscow's goals. The KGB used a wide range of tactics to influence foreign elections. These tactics included spreading disinformation, funding political parties, and conducting covert operations to discredit political opponents. The KGB also sought to cultivate relationships with key individuals in foreign governments to advance Soviet interests. These efforts were part of a broader strategy to weaken Western governments and increase Soviet influence in Europe. The KGB's efforts to influence foreign elections were not always successful. In some cases, their operations were exposed, leading to diplomatic fallout and embarrassment for the Soviet Union. However, the KGB continued to pursue these activities, believing that they were essential for advancing Soviet interests on the world stage.- The KGB's activities in promoting political influence and conducting covert operations to influence foreign elections were a central part of the Soviet Union's foreign policy strategy during the latter half of the 20th century. These activities played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Western Europe and furthering Soviet interests in the region.
