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covert action

international relations

Learn about this topic in these articles:

intelligence and counterintelligence

  • George W. Bush and Porter J. Goss at CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia.
    In intelligence

    …activity commonly known as “covert action.” Intelligence is an important component of national power and a fundamental element in decision making regarding national security, defense, and foreign policies.

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espionage
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espionage

international relations
Also known as: spying
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The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last Updated: • Article History

espionage, process of obtaining military, political, commercial, or other secret information by means of spies, secret agents, or illegal monitoring devices. Espionage is sometimes distinguished from the broader category of intelligence gathering by its aggressive nature and its illegality. See intelligence.

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