What economic interests drove US online snooping?

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US Espionage on Petrobras Driven by Economic and Strategic Interests, Not National Security

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has accused the United States of engaging in online espionage targeting the state-run oil giant Petrobras, asserting that the motive was to serve American "economic and strategic" interests rather than national security. These allegations emerged following reports that the National Security Agency (NSA) had specifically targeted Petrobras, alongside entities like Google and the French foreign ministry. Rousseff emphasized that if these claims are substantiated, the spying would clearly not be for security purposes or the fight against terrorism, but rather to advance economic and strategic objectives.
Allegations of Spying on Petrobras

The accusations stem from reports by TV Globo, which cited leaked US intelligence documents. These documents allegedly identified Petrobras, a global leader in deep-water oil exploration, as a target of NSA online snooping. The Brazilian president explicitly stated that Petrobras poses no threat to any nation's security, and such attempts to acquire data are incompatible with the principles of democratic coexistence between allied nations. Brazil has indicated it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its country, government, and companies from such activities.
Government Response and Diplomatic Engagement

In response to the allegations, Brazil's foreign minister is scheduled to meet with US National Security Advisor Susan Rice to discuss the matter. While the exact date for this meeting in Washington has not been confirmed, it is planned for Wednesday or Thursday. President Rousseff has previously expressed her personal indignation regarding the online snooping claims. The Brazilian government is determined to obtain clarification from the US and demands specific actions to permanently prevent future espionage activities.
Broader Context of US Intelligence Gathering

US Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, in a statement addressing the allegations, maintained that the US collects foreign intelligence, a practice he noted is common among many governments. He stated that this intelligence gathering is intended to enhance the security of American citizens and protect US interests and those of its allies globally. The context provided by Clapper suggests a broader framework for US intelligence operations, though it does not specifically address the economic or strategic motivations behind the alleged targeting of Petrobras.

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What economic interests drove US online snooping?

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