Portrait of Vladimir Putin
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Vladimir Putin on Edward Snowden

Granted citizenship (strong)

Vladimir Putin’s stance on Edward Snowden has been one of providing protection and eventually granting full legal status, framing the action within geopolitical tensions with the US.

In 2013, when Snowden first arrived in Russia seeking asylum, Putin maintained that Russia had not actively sought information from him and had simply granted him refuge. He also reportedly stated that he envied Snowden for being able to speak out without facing repercussions, positioning Russia as a defender of whistleblowers against American overreach.

This position culminated in President Vladimir Putin signing a decree in September 2022 to grant Edward Snowden Russian citizenship. This move effectively ensured Snowden could not be extradited from Russia and was seen by some as a strategic move to further embarrass the US and provide an advantage in the global diplomatic arena.

Context

The relevance of Edward Snowden to Vladimir Putin stems from Snowden’s leaking of classified documents detailing US National Security Agency (NSA) surveillance programs in 2013. Snowden became stranded in Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport, leading to his eventual asylum in Russia.

Granting asylum and citizenship to Snowden provided Putin with a geopolitical tool to criticize and embarrass the United States on the global stage, aligning with Russia's historical critique of US foreign policy and its human rights record. The decision positions Russia as a defender of whistleblowers, even if some analysts suggest Snowden is being used as a pawn.

Timeline

  1. During an annual press conference, Vladimir Putin confirmed he had never met Edward Snowden but stated Russia had made no attempt to extract information from him, simply offering him asylum.
  2. President Vladimir Putin signed a decree granting Russian citizenship to Edward Snowden, who had been living in Russia since 2013 after leaking classified NSA documents.

Actions Taken

  1. Immigration Status
    Granted Edward Snowden temporary asylum, which was later extended to a permanent residency permit.
  2. Citizenship Grant
    Signed a decree granting Edward Snowden Russian citizenship.

Key Quotes

I am envious. Perhaps he can do that and nothing will happen to him for it.

The Guardian December 19, 2013 — Stating his feeling toward Snowden during a 2013 press conference.

We simply gave him asylum.

YouTube (The Guardian) December 19, 2013 — Describing Russia's initial action regarding Snowden's request.

Related Positions

  • US-Russia Relations Snowden's presence in Russia has been a consistent point of tension and friction in diplomatic relations with the United States.
  • State Surveillance Putin's comments show a willingness to exploit the US government's surveillance activities as revealed by Snowden to score political points.