Krystyna Kazakova22:06, 31.07.26

4 min.1405

Experts have created a ranking of the five best intelligence agencies based on their experience working with European agencies.

The first ranking of European intelligence services has been compiled by a jury of sixty intelligence experts from twenty-five countries, reports  L’Express magazine .

The publication said that the experts formed their top 5 based on their experience working with European agencies:

1. MI6, United Kingdom

It is stated that the organization’s greatest advantage is its ability to attract high-level sources and invest in them for many years.

MI6 agents are said to have penetrated deep into the power structures of Russia, China, Turkey and Iran. The agency’s reputation was further strengthened by its early warning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

2. DGSE, France 

The publication noted that it is the only agency in Europe with global reach. Its strength lies in combining technical data collection with human resources and operational capabilities.

According to reports, in 2023, it was the DGSE that learned that Yevgeny Prigozhin was preparing a rebellion against Putin, and passed this information on to the CIA.

3. AIVD and MAIVD, Netherlands

The publication notes that the Dutch have participated in some of the most important covert operations of the last two decades, and in 2016 and 2017, together with the CIA, trained Ukrainians. The AIVD also houses the European Counter-Terrorism Intelligence Center.

4. SBU and GUR, Ukraine

The magazine noted that Kyiv’s special services impressed their colleagues with their innovation, resourcefulness, and willingness to take on high operational risks.

One European intelligence chief compared them to the Mossad, referring to aggressive covert operations like the Nord Stream pipeline bombing, Operation Spider Web, and the assassinations of generals in Moscow.

However, as noted, trust in Ukrainian services is not absolute. Some European officials believe that they may still be infiltrated by Russian agents.

5. BND, Germany

The agency is known primarily for its methodical approach, analytical skills and ability to spot subtle political and economic changes. However, colleagues are skeptical of the Germans’ ability to carry out purely espionage operations, especially abroad, comparing them to “think tank researchers.”

(c)UNIAN 2026