Putin Opens The Door For Snowden Asylum- But Can We Take His Word?

Russian President Vladimir Putin Vladimir Putin opened the door to permanent Russian asylum for infamous NSA leaker Edward Snowden: Asked whether Snowden could stay as long as he wants, Putin replied: "Yes, sure, definitely."On Sunday, ABC's George Stephanopoulos interviewed Russian President Vladimir Putin in advance of the upcoming Sochi Winter Olympics. Among the topics of discussion-Russian-U.S. relations, Olympic security, and Edward Snowden.

When George pushed Russia's President to discuss whether Snowden was allowed to travel to the Winter Games, Putin replied:

"Everybody is invited...Mr. Snowden is subject to the treatment of provisional asylum here in Russia. He has a right to travel freely across the country, he has no special limitation, he can just buy a ticket and come here."

Since Russia offered him temporary asylum late last year, Snowden has been living in a so-called safe house in Moscow. Because his movement is prone to security risks and much public scrutiny, not even his closest associates know the exact location of the building-where Russian security forces provide him with 24-hour protection. He can come and go at his discretion, but never alone. Snowden’s security detail prohibits him from receiving visitors in his safe house. Anyone who wants to see him has to enter into lengthy negotiations, and upon acceptance, guests are driven to a secret rendezvous point, where Snowden meets with them.

While Putin can publicly support Snowden's asylum request, only he knows his true intentions. Given his track record, it's tough to take him for face value. But maybe Russian citizens can find solace in his words? Or maybe, just maybe, he simply enjoys his role as an agitator to the United States. Did we ever think the same Putin controlled government that murdered Anna Politkovskaya, among others, and wound up being one of the most dangerous countries for journalists could convince Americans that it cares about whistleblowers? Only time will tell.

-William B. Robinson (PSC 222)