Topic: Mir

The European Union officially disconnects seven Russian banks from the SWIFT financial messaging system. The hosts point out that this was an EU-led initiative rather than a U.S. one, despite the Biden administration taking credit. They note that Russia has been developing its own alternative payment system for years.

The hosts discuss the reality of Soviet surveillance, noting that the KGB's technology often appeared clunky and outdated, such as microphones visible under layers of paint in hotel rooms. Adam Curry describes the difficulty of making international calls through "floor ladies" and how he eventually used a Westwood One satellite truck to get a U.S. dial tone.