Should Russia Give Up Edward Snowden?

Edward Snowden’s prolonged stay in Russia has not only created complex geopolitical tensions but also sparked intense debates about principles, loyalty, and international relations. While some argue that Russia should hand over Snowden, the reality is far more nuanced than a yes or no answer.

Russia’s Stance

Russia has a vested interest in keeping Snowden, considering his prolonged presence as a strategic and symbolic weapon against the West. According to many experts, Russia is unlikely to give him up any time soon. Here’s why:

Long-Term Diplomatic Reasoning

Russia’s decision to accept Snowden—a former CIA contractor who leaked classified information—was a calculated move to demonstrate its status as a global power capable of challenging the United States. By granting Snowden political asylum, Russia effectively elevated him to the status of a public figure whose presence serves a specific political purpose. This status ensures that Russia is not just keeping Snowden but also leveraging him as a tool in its broader diplomatic arsenal.

Security Measures and Surveillance

The Russian government has implemented strict security measures to ensure Snowden’s safety and prevent any attempts to apprehend him. Constant surveillance, security personnel, and other precautions are in place to maintain control over Snowden’s activities. This approach is indicative of Russia’s commitment to protecting someone who has become a liability but also a valuable asset.

The Case Against Giving Him Up

Several factors contribute to Russia’s reluctance to give Snowden up:

Responsibility towards Asylum Seekers

Russia is under no obligation to hand over Snowden. The principles of granting asylum dictate that once a country provides safe haven, it takes on a certain responsibility for the individual. With Snowden’s political asylum, Russia demonstrated that it views his actions as political rather than criminal. Therefore, unless there are serious legal breaches, Russia has no reason to change its stance.

Economic Considerations and Sanctions

The idea that economic sanctions might prompt Russia to change its stance is purely speculative. Russian leaders have shown no intention of altering their position based on economic pressures. As long as the perceived propaganda value of Snowden continues to outweigh the costs of his presence, Russia is unlikely to compromise.

Uncertainty and Possible Information Retention

There is an element of uncertainty about Snowden’s true intentions and the value of the information he has or may still possess. Some argue that Snowden might still have valuable or even blackmail-inducing information. Absent clear evidence or a significant shift in global geopolitical dynamics, Russia will likely remain cautious in its approach.

Conclusion

While the notion of Snowden being a traitor is valid, the complexities of international relations and the strategic benefits for Russia render an easy answer difficult. Russia’s decision to keep Snowden hinges on a balance of political, economic, and security factors. Until these factors change, Russia is likely to continue supporting Snowden, both as a symbol of defiance against Western powers and as a means of maintaining its strategic leverage.