Whistleblower Snowden's asylum in Russia expires
- 10 years ago
US whistleblower Edward Snowden’s year-long asylum in Russia has come to an end and it’s not known whether his stay will be extended.
The former contractor for the US intelligence agency NSA came to the world’s attention after revealing documents showing the extent of
US surveillance on phone and internet communications, including listening in on German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s phone.
The 30-year-old was forced to seek asylum in Russia after Washington accused him of espionage and stealing documents.
Snowden’s lawyer says he has been given temporary “leave to remain” while his application for an extension is being processed.
Meanwhile film director Oliver Stone is making a movie about Snowden’s life and says he regards him as a “hero”.
The former contractor for the US intelligence agency NSA came to the world’s attention after revealing documents showing the extent of
US surveillance on phone and internet communications, including listening in on German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s phone.
The 30-year-old was forced to seek asylum in Russia after Washington accused him of espionage and stealing documents.
Snowden’s lawyer says he has been given temporary “leave to remain” while his application for an extension is being processed.
Meanwhile film director Oliver Stone is making a movie about Snowden’s life and says he regards him as a “hero”.