Sergei Skripal: Former spy was in 'regular contact with Russian embassy', ex-Kremlin officer claims
Valery Morozov says he believes double agent was still working in cyber security
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sergei Skripal, the double agent attacked with nerve agent in Salisbury, was in “regular contact with the Russian embassy”, a former Kremlin official has claimed.
Valery Morozov, who was an associate of Mr Skripal after he too was exiled to the UK, said that he believes that while living in retirement the former spy was still working in cyber security.
He also claimed Mr Skripal was keeping “dangerous” company, which is why he later chose to distance himself.
“Every month [he was] going to the embassy to meet military intelligence officers”, Mr Morozov told Channel 4 News.
“For me being political refugee it is either certain danger or, frankly speaking, I thought that this concept is not very good for me. It can be bring some questions from British officials.”
The Russian embassy said it was not aware of any meetings.
Mr Morozov also said he was sure that Russian President Vladimir Putin had nothing to do with the alleged poisoning.
“Putin can’t be behind this. I know how the Kremlin works, I worked there. Who is Skripal? He is nothing for Putin. Putin doesn’t think about him”, he said.
“There is nobody in Kremlin talking about former intelligence officer who is nobody. There is no reason for this. It is more dangerous for them for such things to happen.”
Mr Skripal, 66, and his daughter Yulia were found on a bench in Salisbury after being falling ill.
They are currently fighting for their lives in hospital.
A police officer, who was one of the first at the scene, is also in hospital and is believed to be in intensive care.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments