
Can Edward Snowden Really Be Drafted in Russia Now?
(LibertySons.org) – In 2013, Edward Snowden, a subcontractor with the National Security Agency (NSA), leaked classified data to the media, outing surveillance operations by the government. Facing criminal charges for espionage, he fled the United States for Russia that same year. On September 26, he was successful in his bid to become a citizen in his adopted country. Some question what this decision might mean for his future, especially given Moscow’s recent move to begin a military draft.
Former NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden, 39, welcomes Russian citizenship saying it will give his family 'stability' as US officials who still want him on espionage charges say he should be drafted to fight against Ukraine https://t.co/8IW56FHZzD
— IntoTheMystic (@Mystic_Sailor) September 27, 2022
Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed Snowden’s citizenship without fanfare along with a group of others. The former NSA subcontractor had already received permanent residency in the foreign nation in 2020. On Twitter, Snowden expressed happiness that his family will now have stability. He also asked for privacy for his loved ones, which include his sons and wife.
After years of separation from our parents, my wife and I have no desire to be separated from our SONS.
After two years of waiting and nearly ten years of exile, a little stability will make a difference for my family. I pray for privacy for them—and for us all. https://t.co/24NUK21TAo pic.twitter.com/qLfp47uzZ4
— Edward Snowden (@Snowden) September 26, 2022
Reactions from US officials brought up Putin’s military mobilization, forcing mandatory service on Russian citizens in its war against Ukraine. During a press briefing on the day of the announcement, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said there was no change to Snowden’s US citizenship status, and the government still wished to pursue him for his crimes. Price then noted that perhaps the only thing different for the former NSA worker is that he could now face having to fight for Russia due to the new conscription.
On Twitter, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) quipped that Snowden will fight for his new nation unless he gets special treatment over others in Russia. Representative Seth Mouton (D-MA) remarked the former subcontractor should have to fight on the front lines.
Anatoly Kucherena, Snowden’s attorney, explained that because the emigrant hasn’t previously served in the Russian military, he is not draft eligible.
~Here’s to Our Liberty!
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