Prism Informant: Moscow Welcomes Snowden With Open Arms

Former NSA employee Edward Snowden’s arrival in Russia offers a public relations coup for Moscow after a string of criticisms by the United States on a number of fronts related to rights and freedoms. According to Spiegel Online, some members of the Russian parliament appear delighted with Snowden’s reported presence in their country, amid speculation about his eventual travel to Ecuador in light of a pending asylum request and mysterious absence from an earlier flight for which he was scheduled. The reaction by some members of the Duma and the Kremlin, which expressed surprise and suspicion, highlights the contrast on how China and Russia handle relations with the US: Beijing seeks to avoid conflict, suggests one analyst, while President Vladimir Putin’s style is described as antagonistic. Moscow shows enthusiasm for Snowden and other Western whistleblowers, yet is ruthless with its own dissidents, many facing faux trials and long prison sentences for violating vaguely worded treason laws. The delay could be ominous for Snowden, if in Russia, as leaders decide how best to move this pawn. Update: Putin has since been reported to rule out Snowden's extradition to the United States. – YaleGlobal