Handlers from the FSB's Fifth Service seek out foreign politicians, public figures, and journalists willing to promote the Kremlin's agenda in their home countries. FSB officers hold secret meetings with their assets and arrange financing and organizational support. In exchange, loyal foreigners carry out orders from Moscow — they lobby for the lifting of sanctions against Russia, praise Russian elections after serving as “independent observers,” and help spread Kremlin disinformation all across the globe.

While ordinary Russians fleeing from Putin's dictatorship are facing hardship and bureaucratic barriers, many wealthy Russian nationals who openly support the Kremlin's policies are still enjoying a life of luxury in the EU and beyond. The Insider reveals the European assets and dealings of pro-Putin oligarchs who continue to thrive in spite of international sanctions.

From political lobbying and disinformation campaigns to recruitment of mercenaries and acts of sabotage, Russian intelligence agencies stop at nothing to cement the Kremlin's influence abroad and sow discord and confusion in "unfriendly" countries.