Why is Russia spying in Ireland? And does Russian espionage pose a threat to the Irish economy?

Two Russian spy agencies are active in Ireland. Its SVR foreign intelligence service is targeting diplomats, civil servants and public figures.

The GRU, the military intelligence branch of the Russian armed forces, is also using Ireland as an operational base. It is also gathering intelligence on the tech industry and other targets.

Is the government doing anything to confront the Russian threat and to protect both Irish and European interests? And what are the consequences of pursuing a policy of no action?

Gustav Gressel, a Russian analyst from the European Council on Foreign Relations, discusses what many now regard as a major threat Ireland’s national security.