Will Russia grant asylum to Edward Snowden?

Question

Accepted Answer

Russia Considers Asylum Request from Edward Snowden Amidst Diplomatic Tensions

Russia is currently evaluating a request for asylum from Edward Snowden, the former US National Security Agency contractor who leaked classified surveillance details. Snowden has been in the transit zone of Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport for three weeks since arriving from Hong Kong, seeking sanctuary in Russia as a temporary measure before travelling to Latin America. The United States is seeking his extradition to face charges for the leak.
Snowden's Asylum Request and Conditions

Edward Snowden formally requested asylum in Russia, expressing his desire for sanctuary until he can safely travel to Latin America. He made this request known to a group of activists he met at the airport, stating he needed assistance in securing safe passage and asylum. While Snowden previously withdrew a Russian asylum request after President Vladimir Putin stated he would only be allowed to stay if he stopped leaking US information, this new application is being considered. Russian officials have not yet officially confirmed receipt of this latest request.
Favorable Signals from Russian Officials

Several high-ranking Russian officials have indicated a potentially positive reception to Snowden's asylum request. The speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament, Sergei Naryshkin, described Snowden as a "defender of human rights" and suggested that his request should be accepted. Similarly, the speaker of the upper house, Valentina Matviyenko, also voiced support for accepting the request. These statements suggest a willingness within some parts of the Russian government to consider granting Snowden sanctuary.
Diplomatic Ramifications and US Stance

The decision to grant asylum to Edward Snowden carries significant diplomatic weight and risks further straining relations between Russia and the United States. Washington has urged Russia not to grant Snowden asylum, viewing it as a potential "propaganda platform." The White House has also criticized Moscow for allowing Snowden to meet with activists at the airport. The US wants Snowden extradited to face charges related to his leak of US surveillance activities, a demand Moscow has thus far rejected. The situation is complicated by existing tensions between the US and Russia over issues such as human rights and the conflict in Syria.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Will Russia grant asylum to Edward Snowden?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends