To me it fits in with the culture of corruption we’ve seen is rampant in Russian military and government.

“You’ll give me money and/or goods as long as I keep you informed on things I see and hear? Sure Sounds great. I don’t even have to organize the logistics of getting it to the black market.”

I’m sure the Alphabet organizations long history of connections from the Cold War helps as well, but the fact you could probably cut a deal with any Russian officer for five grand, a real bottle of wine, and a fruit basket has to play a big factor.