Canadian Neo-Nazi Convicted. Trump Tells NSC Officials "You're Fired!"

🌍 Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up (April 4, 2025) | Espionage, Diplomatic Tensions & Security Shake-Ups

Welcome to Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up, where we analyze the most pressing intelligence and national security stories shaping the world.

With over 25 years of experience in intelligence and law enforcement, Neil Bisson—Director of the Global Intelligence Knowledge Network and retired Intelligence Officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service—delivers expert analysis beyond the headlines.

This week’s top stories:
🔎 Paraguay vs. Brazil – A diplomatic crisis erupts over espionage allegations, threatening regional stability.
🔎 China’s Spy Crackdown – Beijing arrests three Filipinos, raising concerns about foreign intelligence operations.
🔎 U.S. National Security Council Shake-Up – Trump dismisses key officials—what does this mean for global security?
🔎 CIA’s Surprise Move – A seasoned veteran is pulled from a top clandestine role. Is politics at play?
🔎 Neo-Nazi Conviction in Canada – A landmark case against extremist propaganda.
🔎 Hezbollah in the UK – Two men arrested in London over suspected terrorism links.

Stay tuned as Neil breaks down these critical developments!

📌 Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction
1:25 - Espionage Allegations Strain Paraguay-Brazil Relations
8:35 - China’s Espionage Crackdown: Three Filipinos Arrested
15:00 - U.S. National Security Council Shake-Up & Intelligence Concerns
18:55 - CIA Withdraws Veteran from Clandestine Role
20:30 - Canada’s Neo-Nazi Propagandist Convicted for Terrorism
22:00 - Hezbollah-Linked Arrests in the UK
23:00 - Outro

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📚 Psychology Behind Human Sources in Intelligence Collection: https://pdinstitute.uottawa.ca/PDI/Courses/National-Security/The-Psychology-Behind-Human-Sources/Course.aspx?CourseCode=S0236

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Transcript

2025 04 04 Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap Up

INTRO:

Welcome to Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up, where we break down the most urgent intelligence and national security stories shaping the world.

With over 25 years of experience in intelligence and law enforcement, Neil Bisson—Director of the Global Intelligence Knowledge Network and a retired Intelligence Officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service—delivers expert analysis beyond the headlines.

This week, tensions flare between Paraguay and Brazil as a diplomatic dispute over espionage allegations threatens regional stability. 

What’s behind the accusations, and how might this impact South American intelligence operations?

Meanwhile, China has arrested three Filipinos on espionage charges, raising fresh concerns about Beijing’s tightening grip on counterintelligence. 

Is this part of a broader crackdown, or a warning to foreign intelligence services operating in the region?

And in Washington, a shake-up at the U.S. National Security Council has intelligence insiders buzzing. 

What does this restructuring mean for America’s global security posture?

Plus, trade tariffs are making headlines, but behind the scenes, intelligence agencies are watching closely. 

How do economic pressures intersect with espionage and national security threats?

Stay tuned as Neil unpacks these critical developments.

Now, let’s get started.

MUSIC

Hello, and welcome to this week's episode of Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up. I'm your host, Neil Bisson. 

As a retired intelligence officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and the Director of Global Intelligence Knowledge Network, I’m committed to providing intelligence and insights on the latest breaking news stories in national security, espionage, terrorism and foreign interference. 

This week’s headlines have been filled with Tariff news coming out of the United States, but National Security and Intelligence never takes a break, so let’s get started on this week’s Intelligence Wrap Up. 

For our first story, we're diving into a significant development out of South America: Paraguay's decision to recall its ambassador to Brazil and suspend negotiations over the Itaipu Dam. 

This move comes in response to revelations of espionage activities by Brazil's intelligence agency. 

For this story we'll be exploring the recent diplomatic tensions between Paraguay and Brazil. 

Specifically, we'll discuss the implications of Brazil's alleged espionage on Paraguayan officials and how this has affected negotiations over the Itaipu Dam.

Recent reports have surfaced indicating that during former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's administration, Brazil's intelligence agency conducted surveillance operations targeting Paraguayan officials. 

These operations allegedly involved infiltrating Paraguayan computer systems to gather sensitive information related to tariff negotiations concerning the Itaipu Dam, a massive hydroelectric project jointly operated by both nations. 

From an intelligence standpoint, these actions demonstrate a significant breach of trust and international norms. 

Espionage between allied nations can lead to severe diplomatic fallout, undermining years of cooperation and mutual agreements. 

The Itaipu Dam, being a critical infrastructure project, holds substantial economic and strategic importance for both countries. 

Any clandestine activities surrounding its operations or negotiations can exacerbate existing tensions and hinder collaborative efforts.

To understand the gravity of this situation, it's essential to consider the historical context. 

The Itaipu Dam has been a point of contention since its inception. 

Many Paraguayans view the original treaty, which mandates that Paraguay cede unused energy to Brazil rather than selling it to other countries, as a compromise of their national sovereignty.
 
Furthermore, the history of Paraguay-Brazil relations is marked by significant events, such as the War of the Triple Alliance in the 1860s, where Paraguay faced invasion by Brazil and its allies, leading to substantial territorial and human losses for Paraguay. 

These historical grievances continue to influence the diplomatic dynamics between the two nations.

Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano has labeled the espionage as a violation of international law and an interference in Paraguay's internal affairs. 

He emphasized the need for Paraguay to take all necessary steps to defend its confidential information. 

From my professional perspective, such incidents underscore the delicate nature of international intelligence operations. 

While nations often engage in intelligence gathering to safeguard their interests, targeting allied countries, especially over sensitive economic negotiations, can lead to unintended and detrimental consequences.

The revelation of Brazil's espionage activities has strained its relationship with Paraguay, leading to the recall of ambassadors and suspension of critical negotiations over the Itaipu Dam. 

This incident highlights the fragile nature of international alliances and the profound impact intelligence operations can have on diplomatic relations. 

Moving forward, it's crucial for nations to establish clear boundaries and communication channels to prevent such breaches and maintain mutual trust.

MUSIC

We head to China for our next story, where we're examining a recent development that has heightened tensions between China and the Philippines: the arrest of three Filipino nationals by Chinese authorities on charges of espionage. 

China has recently detained three Filipino citizens, accusing them of spying. 

Let’s look at the details of the allegations, the context of China-Philippines relations, and the broader implications for regional security.

According to reports from China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, the three Filipinos were apprehended for allegedly passing sensitive information to a contact in the Philippines. 

The Chinese authorities claim that the suspects have confessed to these charges, although investigations are still ongoing. 

From an intelligence perspective, such arrests are significant as they underscore the complex and often clandestine nature of international relations in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Espionage activities, whether perceived or real, can severely strain diplomatic ties and can lead to retaliatory measures, further escalating tensions between nations.

This incident occurs against a backdrop of already deteriorating relations between China and the Philippines. 

Recently, Filipino authorities detained several Chinese nationals suspected of espionage within the Philippines.

Some of the regular listeners of the Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap Up will remember that Alice Guo, a Chinese agent, became the mayor of town in the Philippines where she then fled after it was discovered that she was secretly working for the Chinese Communist Party. 

As a result of China’s influence and foreign interference operations against the Philippines,
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been actively strengthening military and diplomatic ties with the United States, China's main strategic competitor. 

This includes a proposed $5.58 billion arms deal involving fighter jets and missiles, which has been viewed unfavorably by Beijing. 

Territorial disputes in the South China Sea further complicate the situation, with both nations asserting claims over strategic areas. 

Additionally, the Philippines' support for Taiwan has drawn criticism from China, adding another layer of complexity to their bilateral relations.

While official statements from both governments are limited, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has urged the Philippines to refrain from making provocative remarks, emphasizing the potential consequences of escalating tensions. 

Drawing from my experience as an intelligence professional, such incidents highlight the delicate balance nations must maintain between safeguarding national security and fostering international cooperation. 

China has a tendency of unfounded retaliation against foreign states they perceive as threatening them. 

This was the case with the arrest and detention of two Canadian citizens, when Huawei CEO Meng Wanzhou was detained in Vancouver. 

Accusations of espionage can serve both as genuine security concerns and as strategic tools in geopolitical maneuvering.

The arrest of three Filipinos in China on espionage charges reflects the intricate and often precarious nature of international relations in the region. 

This development is likely to further strain China-Philippines ties and could have broader implications for regional stability. 

As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor how both nations navigate these challenges and what measures are taken to prevent further escalation.

MUSIC

We head to the United States for this next story, where we're examining a significant shake-up within the U.S. National Security Council or NSC, where President Donald Trump has dismissed several officials deemed insufficiently loyal to his "Make America Great Again" agenda.

We’ll discuss the recent firings of senior NSC officials by President Trump. 

We'll explore the circumstances leading up to these dismissals, the involvement of far-right activist Laura Loomer, and the broader implications for U.S. national security operations.

President Trump has moved to fire several senior NSC officials following a meeting with far-right activist Laura Loomer. 

Loomer, known for promoting conspiracy theories, presented her concerns directly to the President, asserting that certain staff members were not sufficiently loyal to his agenda. 

This meeting included Vice President JD Vance, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Sergio Gor, the Director of the Presidential Personnel Office. 
 
Subsequently, at least three senior NSC officials—Brian Walsh, Thomas Boodry, and David Feith—along with multiple aides, were dismissed. 

These individuals were reportedly aligned with Waltz, who is currently under scrutiny for his use of the unsecured Signal app to discuss sensitive military operations. 

This incident, dubbed "Signalgate," involved the accidental inclusion of journalist Jeffrey Goldberg in a private chat discussing U.S. military plans, leading to significant controversy. 
 
For those who are interested, last week, Phil Gurski and I did a deeper dive into the lapse of Operational Security or OPSEC surrounding “Signalgate” on Spies Like Us, I’ll leave a link in the show notes. 

From an intelligence perspective, these developments raise concerns about the stability and integrity of national security operations. 

The dismissal of experienced personnel can disrupt the continuity of critical functions and may hinder the effective execution of foreign policy.

The NSC has experienced significant turnover during President Trump's administration, often linked to loyalty assessments and ideological alignments. 

This demonstrates a concern on the part of the Trump administration, that anyone who doesn’t share in their total allegiance mentality is a potential threat. 

The recent firings coincide with internal disagreements over staffing choices, particularly between Waltz and Gor, reflecting broader tensions within the administration regarding the direction of national security policies. 
 
Additionally, the use of non-secure communication platforms like Signal for discussing classified information has prompted a review by the Pentagon's acting inspector general. 

This review aims to assess potential violations of policies governing the transmission of classified information and compliance with federal records retention laws. 
 
Senator Mike Rounds has expressed concerns about the impact of these dismissals on experienced intelligence personnel, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a robust and knowledgeable national security team. 
 
Drawing from my experience in intelligence, such abrupt personnel changes, especially when influenced by external activists, can undermine the effectiveness of national security operations. 

It is a move seen more in totalitarian regimes than in democracies. 

Ensuring that staffing decisions are based on merit, ability, and expertise, rather than perceived loyalty, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of intelligence functions.

The recent firings within the NSC highlight the complex interplay between political loyalty and effective governance. 

These developments underscore the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes both the President's agenda and the operational effectiveness of national security institutions. 

As this situation unfolds, it will be essential to monitor the implications for U.S. foreign policy and national security operations.

MUSIC

Sticking with US intelligence, in our next story we're examining a significant development within the U.S. intelligence community: the Central Intelligence Agency's decision to withdraw Ralph Goff, a seasoned veteran, from consideration for the role of Deputy Director for Operations, a position overseeing clandestine activities and human intelligence gathering.

We'll discuss the CIA's recent decision to remove Ralph Goff from consideration as its chief of clandestine operations. 

We'll look at Goff's extensive career, the potential reasons behind this unexpected move, and the broader implications for U.S. intelligence operations and foreign policy.

Ralph Goff, a six-time station chief with a 35-year tenure at the CIA, was reportedly set to assume the role of Deputy Director for Operations later this month. 

However, the agency unexpectedly withdrew his appointment without providing a public explanation. 

This decision has raised questions, especially given Goff's distinguished career and the internal support he garnered within the agency. 
 
Speculation suggests that Goff's vocal support for Ukraine may have influenced this development. 

Since retiring in 2023, he has actively advocated for Ukraine, traveling to the country and engaging with local officials. 

This stance appears to contrast with the current administration's efforts to encourage peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow, potentially leading to concerns about alignment with official U.S. foreign policy objectives. 

From an intelligence perspective, such personnel decisions are critical. 

The Deputy Director for Operations plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing clandestine missions. 

Any shifts in this position can signal changes in operational priorities or strategic alignments, impacting both domestic and international intelligence activities.

The backdrop to this situation includes the complex dynamics of U.S.-Ukraine relations and the broader geopolitical landscape. 

While the U.S. has historically supported Ukraine, recent administrative approaches have emphasized de-escalation and negotiations with Russia. 

Goff's public advocacy for Ukraine, including multiple visits and meetings with Ukrainian officials, may have been perceived as divergent from the administration's current diplomatic strategies. 
 
Internally, the CIA has experienced shifts in leadership and direction, reflecting the evolving priorities of successive administrations. 

The withdrawal of Goff's appointment indicate an effort to ensure that key positions are occupied by individuals whose views and approaches are closely aligned with the prevailing policy directions.
 
James Lawler, a retired CIA operations officer, described Goff as "a patriot, an outstanding case officer, and a staunch supporter of the Ukrainian people”.

Lawler's remarks highlight the respect Goff commands within the intelligence community and underscore the surprise elicited by the agency's decision. 

Drawing from my own intelligence experience, such decisions often reflect a delicate balance between individual expertise and alignment with broader policy objectives. 

Ensuring that leadership positions within intelligence agencies are filled by individuals whose perspectives and strategies are in harmony with current administration goals is crucial for cohesive and effective operations. 

However, decisions based on political considerations as opposed to the operational expertise of the individual slated for the position, is detrimental to the organization and its objectives. 

Clandestine operations are critical to the success of any foreign HUMINT intelligence organization and the dismissal of Goff is a loss to the CIA. 

The CIA's withdrawal of Ralph Goff from consideration for the role of Deputy Director for Operations underscores the interplay between individual agency careers and overarching foreign policy strategies. 

This development may signal a recalibration of priorities within the agency, particularly concerning U.S. engagement with Ukraine and Russia. 

As the intelligence community continues to navigate these complex geopolitical terrains, the selection of its leaders will remain a critical factor in shaping the effectiveness and direction of its operations.

MUSIC

We’re in Canada for our next story where we're examining a landmark legal case involving Patrick Gordon Macdonald, an Ottawa resident recently convicted on charges related to neo-Nazi propaganda and terrorism.

We’ll discuss the conviction of Patrick Gordon Macdonald, who has been found guilty of participating in terrorist activities and promoting hatred. 

We'll also explore the specifics of the case, the evidence presented, and the broader implications for national security and counterterrorism efforts in Canada.

Patrick Gordon Macdonald, known online by the alias "Dark Foreigner," was convicted on charges including participating in the activity of a terrorist group, facilitating terrorist activity, and wilful promotion of hatred. 

The court found that Macdonald produced and disseminated propaganda materials for the Atomwaffen Division, a neo-Nazi organization recognized as a terrorist entity in Canada. 
 
Macdonald's activities involved creating videos and imagery designed to recruit members and promote the extremist ideology of Atomwaffen Division. 

These materials were characterized by their racist and hate-filled content, advocating violence against minority groups. 
 
From an intelligence perspective, this case underscores the persistent threat posed by domestic extremist groups and the role of online propaganda in their operations. 

The utilization of digital platforms to spread extremist ideologies and recruit members highlights the evolving landscape of national security threats.

The Atomwaffen Division has been linked to various violent incidents and plots, leading to its designation as a terrorist organization by multiple countries, including Canada. 

Macdonald's involvement with this group dates back several years, during which he contributed significantly to their propaganda efforts. 
 
This conviction marks a significant moment in Canada's legal approach to handling domestic terrorism, as it represents one of the first instances where an individual has been charged and convicted under both terrorism and hate propaganda statutes simultaneously. 
 
Legal experts have noted the importance of this case in setting a precedent for prosecuting individuals involved in the creation and dissemination of extremist propaganda. 

The successful conviction demonstrates the judiciary's recognition of the tangible threats posed by such activities and the necessity of addressing them within the framework of existing anti-terrorism laws.

Unfortunately, far right and Neo Nazi groups are gaining momentum, both in Canada and internationally. 

These militant hate groups can be dangerous and sometimes are better organized than many intelligence and law enforcement entities are willing to give them credit for. 

Multiethnic countries with large populations of first, second and third generation immigrant citizens are just some of the targets of these groups, who often blame their own inability to prosper in society on foreign labour and immigration policies. 

Many European countries are seeing political parties that lean farther and farther towards the right, which is helping to embolden this type of ideology, making it more difficult for intelligence and law enforcement to focus the needed attention against this domestic extremism and terrorist action. 

The conviction of individuals like Macdonald is crucial in disrupting the operational capabilities of extremist groups. 

By targeting the propagandists who amplify and spread hateful ideologies, law enforcement agencies can impede the recruitment and radicalization processes that are vital to these organizations.

The conviction of Patrick Gordon Macdonald highlights the critical intersection of online propaganda and domestic terrorism. 

This case exemplifies the challenges faced by national security agencies in addressing the digital dimensions of extremist activities. 

Moving forward, it is imperative for intelligence and law enforcement agencies to continue monitoring and countering the online dissemination of extremist content to safeguard national security.

MUSIC

For this week’s last story, we’re looking at a counterterrorism operation in the UK where two men were arrested in London over alleged ties to Hezbollah, a group designated as a terrorist organization under UK law. This case raises questions about Hezbollah's global network and its potential influence in Western countries.

The Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command arrested a 39-year-old man in north-west London and a 35-year-old man in west London on suspicion of being members of a proscribed organization. 

Authorities also suspect the 39-year-old of preparing for acts of terrorism and involvement in terrorism financing. 

Searches were conducted at five locations, but officials stated there was no imminent threat to the public.

These arrests reflect ongoing concerns about Hezbollah's reach beyond the Middle East. 

While the group is primarily known for its conflict with Israel, it has long maintained networks across Europe, engaging in activities ranging from fundraising to logistical support.

Hezbollah, founded in the 1980s with Iranian backing, has been involved in numerous conflicts and attacks. 

The UK designated the group as a terrorist organization in 2019, making any affiliation with it a criminal offense. 

Western intelligence agencies have long tracked Hezbollah-linked cells operating outside Lebanon, particularly in Europe and South America, where the group is believed to engage in fundraising, recruitment, and logistical support for its operations.

This isn't the first time Hezbollah has been linked to activities in the UK. 

In 2015, a covert Hezbollah-linked stockpile of explosives was discovered in London, leading to increased scrutiny of the group's presence.

Commander Dominic Murphy of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command emphasized that terrorist activities abroad can have direct consequences on security within the UK. 

His statement underscores the interconnected nature of modern terrorism—what happens in Lebanon or Iran can have ripple effects in London, Paris, or Toronto.

From an intelligence analysis perspective, this case highlights the continued challenge of monitoring foreign terrorist organizations' influence on Western soil. 

The involvement of terrorism financing suggests a broader network that authorities will likely investigate further.
The arrests of these two men in London highlight the persistent global reach of Hezbollah and the efforts by Western intelligence agencies to counter its activities. 

While authorities have stated that there is no imminent threat to the public, this case serves as a reminder that terrorist organizations continue to operate beyond their traditional conflict zones.

With the ongoing conflict in Israel and the need of terrorist groups like Hezbollah to replenish their funding and their personnel, we will continue to see activities like this happen in Europe and North and South America. 


Well, that’s all for this week. 

As always, the links to the news articles discussed are available in the transcript of the podcast. 

I want to send a shout out to the participants of my first online course for the University of Ottawa. 

The course, entitled The Psychology Behind Human Sources in Intelligence Collection, focusses on the motivations of sources that are identified, and sometimes manipulated by Intelligence Organizations.

There will be another course available in May and I will leave a link in the show notes for those wishing to sign up. 

As always stay curious, stay informed and stay safe. 

See you next week. 

MUSIC

OUTRO:

That’s a wrap for this week’s Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up.
From Paraguay and Brazil’s diplomatic standoff over espionage, to China’s latest spy arrests and a shake-up within the U.S. National Security Council, today’s stories reveal the shifting landscape of global intelligence.

Bringing you these expert insights takes deep research, experience, and a commitment to uncovering the intelligence stories that matter.

If you found this episode valuable, consider liking, sharing, or leaving a comment. Your engagement helps bring these critical discussions to a wider audience.

And if you’d like to support the show and help us keep delivering expert analysis, you can do so through Patreon or Buzzsprout. 

Whether it’s a one-time contribution or ongoing support, every bit helps. You’ll find the links in the show notes.

Thank you for tuning in.

And as Neil always says: stay curious, stay informed, and stay safe. See you next week.


LINKS: 

University of Ottawa – The Psychology Behind Human Sources in Intelligence Collection. 
Link: https://pdinstitute.uottawa.ca/PDI/Courses/National-Security/The-Psychology-Behind-Human-Sources/Course.aspx?CourseCode=S0236

Spies Like Us: OOPSEC, POOPSEC: National Security Signal Hits the fan: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4uyMeFIIrCsWzPPxvYe4O6?si=iRJ0ABkhSKSREFfKoU9qJQ

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/NeilBisson

Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2336717/support

NEWS ARTICLE LINKS: 

Story 1: Paraguay recalls ambassador to Brazil and suspends dam talks over espionage revelations
Link: https://halifax.citynews.ca/2025/04/01/paraguay-recalls-ambassador-to-brazil-and-suspends-dam-talks-over-espionage-revelations/

Story 2: China arrests 3 Filipinos for alleged spying
Link: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/04/04/2433380/china-arrests-3-filipinos-alleged-spying

Story 3: Trump fired several national security officials after meeting with Laura Loomer, AP sources say
Link: https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/article/trump-fired-several-national-security-officials-deemed-insufficiently-loyal-ap-sources-say/

Story 4: CIA drops agency veteran from consideration as chief of clandestine operations
Link: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/02/cia-drops-agency-veteran-clandestine-operations-00267346

Story 5: Ottawa neo-Nazi propagandist found guilty of inciting hate, helping terrorist group
Link: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/ottawa-neo-nazi-propagandist-found-212428398.html

Story 6: Men arrested over suspected links to Hezbollah
Link: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cyvq706pvd9o