Oleg Penkovsky is best known for being declared as the “single most valuable agent in CIA history.” Penkovsky was a Soviet intelligence officer who volunteered to for the United States and the United Kingdom during the 1960’s. He would pass military intelligence secrets that shed light on Soviet intentions and weapon capabilities. This information proved to be critical during the Cuban missile crisis as it let the CIA know the missiles were operational and key technical capabilities. That information may have given John F. Kennedy the edge he needed in order to avoid a nuclear confrontation.
Sharing is caring