Arkady N. Shevchenko was a prominent Soviet diplomat and author who gained international recognition for his defection from the Soviet Union in 1978. Born in Ukraine in 1930, Shevchenko began his career in the Soviet Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the 1950s. He served as a diplomat in various capacities, including as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. Shevchenko’s decision to defect to the United States was a significant event during the Cold War, as it provided valuable insights into the inner workings of the Soviet Union.

Shevchenko’s book, “Breaking with Moscow,” published in 1985, is a memoir that details his experiences as a Soviet diplomat and his disillusionment with the Soviet regime. In this book, Shevchenko provides a firsthand account of the corruption and oppression within the Soviet government, shedding light on the realities of Soviet diplomacy and the challenges faced by those who dared to question the system. “Breaking with Moscow” became a bestseller and received critical acclaim for its candid portrayal of the Soviet Union.

Arkady N. Shevchenko’s defection and subsequent book have made him an influential figure in the field of Soviet studies. His firsthand experiences and revelations have contributed to a better understanding of the Soviet Union’s inner workings and the challenges faced by those who sought to challenge its authority.