Russia to expel 'CIA agent' for trying to recruit spy

Russia says it will expel a US diplomat briefly detained in Moscow for allegedly trying to recruit a Russian intelligence officer as a spy.

The diplomat, named as CIA agent Ryan Fogle, was held overnight before being released to US officials.

He has been declared "persona non grata" for "provocative actions in the spirit of the Cold War", the Russian foreign ministry said on its website.

The US ambassador to Moscow, Michael McFaul, had been summoned, it added.

Mr Fogle is said to have worked as third political secretary at the US embassy in Moscow, which has issued no comment on the matter so far.

The diplomat was reportedly arrested with a large sum of money, technical devices and written instructions for the Russian agent he had tried to recruit.

Photos purporting to show Mr Fogle's detention have been widely circulated in the Russian media.

Russian state TV has displayed a piece of paper, which it said was Mr Fogle's letter to the Russian officer.

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Addressing the recipient as "Dear friend", the letter offers $100,000 (£65,400) "to discuss your experience, expertise and co-operation".



It goes on to say: "We can offer up to $1m a year for long-term co-operation, with extra bonuses if we receive some helpful information.

"This is a down payment from someone who is very impressed with your professionalism and who would greatly appreciate your co-operation in the future."

The letter is simply signed "Your friends".
Source: BBC Posted by Unknown 5/14/2013