Turkish intelligence declassifies 93-year-old document, highlights Soviet espionage
Russia's Bolshevik politician Lev Davidovich Bronstei, better known as Leon Trotsky. (Photo via Britannica)
The National Intelligence Organization (MIT) has declassified yet another historical document, this time a 93-year-old intelligence report dating back to January 16, 1932. The document originates from MIT’s predecessor, the National Security Service Directorate (MEH/MAH).
The document reveals that during the exile of Russia’s Bolshevik politician Lev Davidovich Bronstei, better known as Leon Trotsky, in Istanbul’s Buyukada, largest of the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara, from 1929 to 1933.
He was closely monitored by Soviet intelligence through a Turkish interpreter working for MEH/MAH, according to the revealed document. It is worth mentioning that the interpreter’s name has been redacted for security reasons.
The Soviet agent, identified as “Davranov,” tasked the interpreter with several missions, including:
- Closely monitoring Trotsky.
- Identifying visitors to Trotsky.
- Tracking Trotsky’s movements and meetings.
- Determining Trotsky’s activities at home.
- Uncovering Trotsky’s contacts and communications.
The document indicates that Davranov was unaware of the interpreter’s allegiance to Turkish intelligence. MEH/MAH instructed the interpreter to maintain contact with Davranov discreetly.
The Soviet agent also sought information on those responsible for Trotsky’s protection, a request the interpreter found objectionable but ultimately accepted under MEH/MAH’s directive.
Further details in the document reveal that Davranof promised monetary rewards to both the interpreter and a police officer named “Salih Efendi” for their cooperation.
Exposing new spy networks
The document also mentions the arrival of individuals from England and France to visit Trotsky, identified as “Osiss Rosenzweig” and “Raymond Mouliniere,” respectively. The purpose of their visit remains unclear.
Additionally, the document reveals that Turkish intelligence planned to provide Davranov with some “false” information about Trotsky through Turkish intelligence agent. This strategy aimed to expose new spy networks working for Russian intelligence by tracking the money and directives given by Davranov, the report details.
The declassified document highlights the intricate espionage activities during Trotsky’s exile and the strategic maneuvers employed by Turkish intelligence to counter Soviet efforts.
With the ongoing release of dated intelligence reports, MIT offers historians, researchers, and enthusiasts a rare and valuable glimpse into the country’s intelligence history during the early days of the Republic of Türkiye, shedding light on how Türkiye navigated in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
