The mission wer. Angielska

John Simpson from The Guardian praises Tim Weiner's work, suggesting "The Mission" is worthy of a second Pulitzer Prize for providing unrivaled insight into the CIA. As a follow-up to Weiner's acclaimed "Legacy of Ashes," this book offers an engaging account of the CIA’s evolution in the 21st century, from the aftermath of September 11, through the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, to current tensions with Russia and China, as well as challenges faced during various U.S. presidencies.At the start of the new century, the CIA was experiencing turmoil as the Cold War's conclusion left the agency without a clear purpose. Many international operations were closed down or scaled back, resulting in a shortage of vital intelligence. Entering the information age, the agency struggled with outdated technology, making it difficult to discern important intel amid the chaos of data.The events of September 11th, 2001, marked a turning point, prompting a transformation within the CIA as it adapted to a paramilitary role, focusing on operations such as secret prisons and controversial interrogation techniques. This shift led to severe repercussions including the loss of foreign agents, espionage by Chinese operatives, cyber-attacks from Russian intelligence, and broader conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.In "The Mission," Weiner narrates the CIA's efforts to regain its espionage prowess, ultimately succeeding in gaining intelligence within the Kremlin. The story underscores the importance of the agency's original purpose—to understand adversaries—for the security of the United States and its allies.The book is an exemplary piece of investigative journalism, offering firsthand accounts from six former CIA directors, thirteen station chiefs, and numerous spies who share their experiences. These insights provide a comprehensive view of the agency's significant challenges and its ongoing fight to adapt in a rapidly changing world.