According to a New York Times report, Russia has turned Brazil into a “spy factory.”

“For years, according to a New York Times investigation, Russia used Brazil as a launchpad for its elite intelligence agents, known as 'illegals.' In a bold and far-reaching operation, the spies abandoned their Russian pasts. They opened businesses, made friends, and engaged in romantic relationships—experiences that, over many years, became the foundation of entirely new identities.”

“The goal wasn’t to spy on Brazil, but to become Brazilian. Once embedded with credible backstories, they would move on to the United States, Europe, or the Middle East and begin their real work. Russia essentially transformed Brazil into an assembly line for undercover agents.”