Burned, No Notice*
A quirky story of a Russian exposed spy
The air marshal hated this part of his job. A particularly unruly passenger got too drunk on the layover between his flight from Moscow to Paris at the Istanbul airport and had a physical altercation with someone who tried to calm him down. The drunk needed to be restrained, it took a lot of convincing for the victim not to file an official complaint, but the perpetrator was still stubbornly trying to board his next flight to Paris.
"Sir, you will NOT board this flight," the air marshal said to him firmly and slowly so that the passenger understood. "Your boarding is denied for disruptive behavior. You will not be compensated for the remaining leg and will not be able to re-book with our airlines for any later date. We will also share your information with other airlines."
"So you are blacklisting me?!! But... but... but I have to be... in Paris for an impor...tant mission... meeeeting," he tried to protest, slurring his words. His heavy Russian accent did not help.
"I'm sorry, sir, but if you do not leave the boarding area immediately I will have to call the police," the marshal was firm and unbending.
"But what do I do now?" he still couldn't comprehend the gravity of his situation.
"Well, first of all you need to leave the boarding area. Second, go to a hotel to sleep it off," the air marshal said, leading him out of the boarding area.
All of this happened on May 7, 2024. He managed to hire a taxi that took him to the Turkish-Bulgarian border and then another ride to St.Vlas, a Black Sea Bulgarian resort town where he owned an apartment. There, he laid low for several days before moving on to Paris, his final destination.
The man's name was Kirill Griaznov, and he was on a mission to "disrupt the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris," as he bragged to everyone who'd listen in Bulgaria when he was drunk.
He had a checkered history: in early 2000s he graduated from a law school in Russia and clerked at a state agency for some time. That’s when he was most probably recruited by the Russian security agency. Then, Griaznov suddenly decided to become a chef and enrolled himself in the Paris School of Culinary Arts, the famed Le Cordon Bleu. After he graduated, he worked as a chef in several international locations, including the famed Russian Mari Vanna restaurant in New York City.
To think of it, an international chef is a perfect cover for an international spy: the restaurant managers will provide you with a work visa, no one would ever suspect you are a spy because who does that anyway, most spies are usually associated with embassies and academia where they have direct access to secret information carriers. In a restaurant, however, you have access to celebrities, politicians and other important people and if you are just a killer or disruptor for hire you don't even need that, just access to the location and necessary resources like bombs.
Over the years, Griaznov became quite a decent chef and even participated in a cooking reality TV show in Russia and one of their Bachelor equivalent shows titled "Choose Me." He was quite photogenic and charismatic, could speak well and convincingly and seemed to be liked by many.
In any case, for almost three months our "hero" was shuttling between Paris and Bulgaria, preparing for his act of disrupting the Paris Olympics. Some Bulgarians heard him boasting on the phone to his handler that "the French are going to have an opening ceremony like no other" and that he'd hired another Moldovan for the job. Why would he do that, you'd ask? First of all, he was drunk in most those conversations and seemed to be bragging in public about how important he was, brandishing some sort of a Russian ID. Second, Russians still consider Bulgaria to be a friendly country where they can behave like "big brothers."
Some vigilant Bulgarians, however, reported Griaznov first to The Insider, a Bulgarian network of investigative journalists that had burned many a Russian spy in Europe. The Insider did its own investigation, established Griaznov's connection with the Russian GRU (military intelligence service) and provided his information to the French security forces. At the end of July, before the Paris Olympics opened, Griaznov was arrested at his Paris apartment and the investigators found enough evidence to connect him with the planned disruptive acts.
It is hard to predict if he would be ever exchanged in another prisoner swap between Russia and the West. I'm sure he was hoping that he'd be included into the most recent one with Vadim Krasikov (see my story about that below). For now, he is in a French prison waiting for the charges and sentencing.
This is such a human story, though, that shows how easily the spies can burn themselves when they get too drunk and too brash. And he also exposed the Russian restaurant networks as potential spy nests, which Putin may not forgive him easily. A failed assignment and an exposed spy network may leave him in the French prison forever.
*Reference to the 2007-2014 Burn Notice show with Jeffrey Donovan
My story about the most recent prisoner swap is here:
The Insider story with more details is here:
About the Creator
Lana V Lynx
Avid reader and occasional writer of satire and short fiction. For my own sanity and security, I write under a pen name. My books: Moscow Calling - 2017 and President & Psychiatrist
@lanalynx.bsky.social
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Ditched - Index
This index is just for my subscribers. I finished and published this long story or short novella of 6,000 words recently. I tried to link all previous parts of the story in the next one, so if you went along you shouldn't have been lost. This index is just put everything in one place.
By Lana V LynxExclusive • 4 months ago
Grief Over Pet Death Can Be as Strong as That for a Family Member, Survey Shows
For many, pets are more than just animals; they are companions, confidants, and family members. A recent survey has revealed that the grief experienced after the death of a beloved pet can be as intense as mourning the loss of a close family member, underscoring the profound emotional significance of human-animal relationships. The survey, conducted across multiple countries, sheds light on the psychological and social impacts of pet loss, highlighting how society often underestimates the depth of grief associated with losing a furry, feathered, or scaled friend. The Survey Findings The survey included thousands of participants who had experienced the death of a pet, asking them to rate their grief and compare it with other life events. Key findings include: Emotional intensity: Around 70% of respondents reported that their grief over a pet was as strong, or stronger, than grief experienced for a close relative. Duration of mourning: Many participants noted that grief lasted weeks to months, with some describing lingering emotional effects for years. Social recognition: Over 60% of respondents felt that their grief was not fully recognized by friends or family, often leading to feelings of isolation. These results highlight that pet loss is not trivial or fleeting, but a legitimate emotional experience that can significantly affect mental health. Why Pet Loss Can Be So Painful The intense grief associated with losing a pet is rooted in several factors: Unconditional companionship: Pets provide constant support and affection, often without judgment, creating deep emotional bonds. Routine and lifestyle changes: Pets become woven into daily routines, and their absence disrupts normal life, contributing to feelings of emptiness. Emotional support: Many people rely on pets for comfort during stressful periods. The loss of this support system can be emotionally destabilizing. Anthropomorphism: Owners often attribute human-like emotions and personalities to pets, which strengthens the emotional connection. These factors combine to make the loss of a pet deeply personal and emotionally impactful. Types of Pets and Grief While dogs and cats are the most commonly reported pets in grief surveys, studies show that owners of birds, rabbits, reptiles, and even fish can experience similarly profound grief. Dogs: Often mourned for their loyalty, companionship, and protective nature. Cats: Valued for affection, playfulness, and calming presence. Exotic pets: Owners may experience grief linked to unique bonds and care routines. The intensity of grief may also correlate with the length of the relationship, the pet’s role in the family, and the circumstances of their death. Psychological Effects of Pet Loss Grieving a pet can manifest in ways similar to grieving a human loved one, including: Sadness and crying Sleep disturbances Loss of appetite Social withdrawal or irritability Guilt or feelings of responsibility for the pet’s death Mental health professionals note that acknowledging these feelings is crucial. Suppressing grief or minimizing the loss can lead to prolonged emotional distress or depression. Societal Perceptions and Misunderstanding One challenge pet owners face is that society often underestimates or dismisses their grief. Phrases like “It was just a pet” or “You can get another one” can exacerbate emotional pain and make the bereaved feel invalidated. Experts emphasize that recognizing pet grief is vital for emotional recovery. Many workplaces, schools, and communities are beginning to acknowledge pet loss in bereavement policies, reflecting a growing understanding of its psychological impact. Coping Mechanisms and Support People cope with pet loss in various ways, including: Memorializing the pet: Creating photo albums, planting trees, or holding small ceremonies can provide closure. Support groups: Pet loss support groups, both online and in person, allow owners to share experiences and find understanding. Professional counseling: Therapists trained in grief counseling can help individuals navigate intense emotions and prevent prolonged distress. Continuing routines: Some owners find comfort in volunteering at animal shelters or fostering pets, keeping a connection to animals alive. Cultural practices also influence how grief is expressed. In some countries, rituals or pet funerals help formalize mourning and provide social support. Recognizing Pet Grief in Children Children can experience pet loss intensely but differently than adults. They may express grief through: Play or drawing, reflecting their memories Regressive behavior, like bed-wetting or clinginess Withdrawal or irritability Parents are encouraged to validate children’s feelings, explain the pet’s death honestly, and provide opportunities for rituals or goodbyes, such as memorials or planting a tree. Changing Cultural Attitudes As pets increasingly become family members, cultural attitudes toward pet grief are evolving. Some trends include: Pet bereavement leave: Companies and organizations offering time off for employees after a pet dies. Therapeutic services: Counseling and hotlines specifically for pet loss. Social media acknowledgment: Online communities where people share memories and support each other. These changes help normalize pet grief and encourage individuals to seek support without shame. Expert Opinions Dr. Karen Smith, a psychologist specializing in grief counseling, explains: “People often underestimate the grief associated with losing a pet, but it is real and can be profoundly impactful. Acknowledging it, talking about it, and seeking support are crucial steps in healing.” Veterinarians also note that pet loss can affect physical health, with increased stress, headaches, and fatigue being common among those grieving. Final Thoughts The survey underscores a powerful truth: pets are family, and losing them can be devastating. Recognizing the depth of grief associated with pet loss is essential for emotional well-being and social understanding. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, or other companion, the bond people form with animals is deep, meaningful, and enduring. By acknowledging this grief, society can help ensure that pet owners receive empathy, support, and space to mourn, validating one of the most profound emotional experiences in human life.
By Muhammad Hassana day ago in The Swamp
Miss Persephone's Manual to a Seemingly Ordinary Life
Miss Persephone was found at the dining table, her blue eyes swollen, her tears arriving and retreating like the tides of the ocean. Earlier that day, her family had visited her in the retirement home where she had lived for eight years. It was her eightieth birthday.
By Imola Tóth2 days ago in Fiction
Comments (9)
Jeez - Stories of spies always seem so romanticized, but this guy makes it sound like it's something just about anyone could do... as long as they don't get drunk and reveal themselves haha. Thanks for sharing this Lana!
Wow! Fascinating account… well written.🤩
Thank god he was apprehended, damn
Lol, he kinda dug his own grave 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I thought the idea of being a spy was to blend but it sounds like his arrogance was his downfall here and that he was really the orchestrator of it.
Glad to know that.
I read that article about the spy! Nice job on this story. Truth is stranger than fiction.
Damn! Thats some crazy stuff! Wondering what the actual disruption plan consisted of. Thank God he was caught.
I was oblivious to this whole story.