Fri Sep 19 16:30:00 UTC 2025: ## MI6 Chief Says Putin “Bitten Off More Than He Can Chew,” Launches Recruitment Drive Targeting Russians

**Istanbul -** Outgoing MI6 chief Richard Moore delivered a scathing assessment of Russia’s war in Ukraine, stating that President Vladimir Putin’s ambitions have far exceeded his capabilities. Speaking in Istanbul, Moore, known within MI6 as “C,” asserted that Russia is unlikely to achieve victory on the battlefield and announced a global recruitment drive, specifically targeting Russians with access to sensitive information.

“Putin has sought to convince the world that Russian victory is inevitable, but he lies,” Moore declared, emphasizing that Russian battlefield gains have been incremental and come at a tremendous cost, including over a million casualties. He criticized the deployment of poorly trained troops from Russia’s poorest regions as “cannon fodder.”

Moore highlighted the significant support Putin receives from Iran, China, and North Korea, which has allowed him to avoid internal collapse and a potential ceasefire agreement. He warned that Putin will eventually face a critical choice: risk economic and political turmoil that threatens his leadership or negotiate a reasonable resolution to the conflict.

Strategically choosing Istanbul, a hub for Russian visitors, Moore launched MI6’s secure messaging platform, “Silent Courier,” designed to facilitate contact with potential recruits. He framed the initiative as an opportunity for Russians to contribute to European peace and safeguard their nation’s honor.

“To those men and women in Russia who have truths to share and the courage to share them, I invite you to contact MI6,” Moore stated, promising security and protection. He emphasized that the recruitment drive seeks to connect with Russians who, like the late Alexei Navalny, secretly resist the Putin regime.

Moore’s remarks also addressed other global security threats, particularly Iran, and reiterated that MI6’s recruitment offer is open to anyone, regardless of nationality, who seeks to share valuable information.

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