Russian intelligence services have been increasing their presence in Mexico, with dozens of personnel added to the embassy staff in Mexico City in recent years. U.S. officials believe this buildup is aimed at strengthening Kremlin’s intelligence operations targeting the United States, as well as propaganda efforts to undermine Washington and Ukraine. The Biden administration has raised concerns with the Mexican government about this issue.
This expansion in Mexico is seen as part of a broader aggressive posture by Russian intelligence services globally, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and assassination plots in Europe. Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck has noted that the largest portion of Russian intelligence personnel from the GRU military intelligence service can be found in Mexico, keeping a close eye on opportunities to influence the U.S.
Historically, Mexico has been a strategic location for Russian spying activities, with the country offering a relatively safe and low-risk environment compared to the U.S. This has led to instances of American individuals collaborating with Russian intelligence, such as Harold Nicholson and Hector Cabrera Fuentes. Mexico’s proximity to the U.S. also makes it a convenient base for supporting agents operating in America under deep cover.
Despite Mexico’s close trade ties with the U.S., the country has traditionally maintained friendly relations with Russia and Cuba, making it an attractive location for Russian intelligence services to operate. U.S. officials are concerned not only about espionage activities but also about efforts to manipulate the information landscape in Mexico, including spreading propaganda to undermine international support for Ukraine and sow social divisions.
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