What do Russia, President Trump, and Snowden have in common? They’re all part of a move that could bring whistle-blower Edward Snowden back to the US. But I doubt it’ll be under happy circumstances. At least not for Snowden. Russia, President Trump, and Snowden! Oh my!
So according to a story by International Business Times, Russia considers giving Snowden to President Trump as a ‘gift’. Yes, there is a movement to pardon Snowden. In fact, there’s a website dedicated to the cause. But I don’t think this is what they want. President Trump refers to Snowden as a traitor and a spy. In one tweet, Trump even suggested the most severe penalty for Snowden. Furthermore, the report suggests Snowden’s mixed feelings for the move. On one hand, Snowden says it proves he’s not a spy. But he says the move could be a human rights violation.
All of this comes from a US intelligence report. But none of this is set in stone. Edward Snowden is living in Russia. He’s been there since 2013. That’s when he let America know the NSA had access to all our tech activities. His findings also said tech companies were in cahoots with the NSA. Most tech companies vehemently deny this. A permit lets Snowden stay in Russia until 2020. So why are these stories coming out now?
Since the election, I’ve noticed President Trump try to mend fences with Putin. In some cases, Putin seems to be doing the same. ?Why is this important? Well, online privacy is a common concern in the IT service industry, especially here in Boston IT support. Now I appreciate these two nations for trying to work their differences out. In fact, I’m happy they are. I’d rather have Russia as an ally than as a foe. But at what cost? Are better US/Russia relations worth a man’s fate and freedom?