What is Zachary Young's upcoming book about?

Zachary Young's upcoming book, "American Spy," details his experiences as a CIA-trained operative working undercover in hostile environments.

Why did Zachary Young sue CNN?

Zachary Young sued CNN for defamation, alleging the network implied he illegally profited while assisting evacuations from Afghanistan.

What was the outcome of the defamation trial between Zachary Young and CNN?

A jury found CNN committed defamation against Zachary Young, leading to a settlement after the jury awarded him damages.

Home / Crime and Justice / Veteran's Memoir: CIA Secrets Revealed

Veteran's Memoir: CIA Secrets Revealed

15 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Navy veteran Zachary Young won a defamation lawsuit against CNN.
Young's upcoming memoir details his CIA training and espionage work.
Jury foreman suggested a potential award of $50-100 million.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Zachary Young, has announced an upcoming memoir, "American Spy," following his victory in a defamation trial against CNN. Young, who is CIA-trained, alleged the network smeared his reputation by suggesting he illegally profited from helping individuals evacuate Afghanistan in 2021.

The memoir promises to expose the clandestine world of international espionage, detailing Young's journey from recruitment through perilous missions in hostile territories. His legal success against CNN stemmed from the jury's finding that the network defamed him, with the foreman revealing the jury considered a much larger settlement amount.

CNN stated it would learn from the case, while Young's forthcoming book, co-authored by Scott McEwen, is slated for release in 2026. The settlement terms between Young and CNN remain undisclosed, but the trial's outcome has significant implications for both parties.