28.03.2024

Snowden Granted Permanent Russian Residency

Russia has granted permanent residency to former U.S. spy agency contractor and whistleblower Edward Snowden after his current permit expired, his lawyer told state media Thursday.

Russia granted Snowden, 37, asylum in 2013 after the former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor exposed mass surveillance by U.S. intelligence agencies around the world. He faces up to 30 years in jail in the United States for violating the Espionage Act, though many civil rights activists see him as a hero.

“Snowden was granted an open-ended residence permit earlier today,” the state-run TASS news agency quoted his lawyer Anatoly Kucherena as saying.

The lawyer told Interfax that changes made to Russian immigration law in 2019 allowed Snowden to obtain indefinite residency.

Kucherena had said that Snowden’s previous permit expired in April but was automatically extended until June due to the coronavirus pandemic, TASS reported. Snowden applied to extend his residence permit as soon as authorities lifted lockdown measures, the lawyer added.

Snowden, who has led a reclusive life in Russia, is not considering applying for Russian citizenship, Kucherena added. The whistleblower has previously expressed concerns for his safety in Russia.

Last year, Snowden said he wanted France and Germany to grant him asylum and expressed willingness to serve time in U.S. prison as long as he is guaranteed a fair trial.

Stevie Wonder slams Trump over Proud Boys and coronavirus at rally with Biden and Obama

The legendary singer invoked the president’s words to the Proud Boys at the first presidential debate, when he told the group to «stand back and stand by».

Wonder said: «You know what we say in the ghetto when somebody says that, right? Watch yourself, get your ass whupped.»

He urged attendees to maintain social distancing, saying: «We’ve got a situation going on because someone didn’t handle their business right.»

The Michigan native marked Halloween by playing “Superstition” among other hits, including “Overjoyed”.

Referencing an alleged plot to kidnap Ms Whitmer, governor of Michigan, Wonder said: «Excuse my language but that’s some bulls*** — unacceptable.»

Ms Whitmer, who urged rally-goers to turn out in force for Mr Biden on Tuesday, has said Mr Trump’s repeated attacks on her bear some responsibility for the alleged conspiracy and other threats to her life. He has continued to insult her at his events, where his supporters chant «lock her up».

Wonder echoed the view of people on both sides of the political aisle, saying 3 November’s election was the “most important” of his life.

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