However, the reports didn’t specify whether Snowden had renounced American citizenship. In 2013, the United States deported Snowden from Hong Kong. He was trying to reach Ecuador by then.
Russia granted him permanent residence. He married Lindsay Mills, an American woman, in 2017. They have two children.
Washington State Department spokesperson Ned Price stated Friday that the US knew of reports Snowden had obtained his Russian citizenship, but couldn’t confirm them. He also referred any questions regarding his status to Russia. Price stated that the Biden administration wouldn’t be surprised if these reports were true.
Price stated to reporters that Mr Snowden had long indicated his loyalty to Russia. This step would only formalize it.”
Snowden released documents detailing the National Security Agency’s collection and use of data through US telephone lines and internet companies. Snowden also revealed details about the US intelligence budget as well as the extent of American surveillance of foreign officials, including leaders of US-allied nations.
Snowden claims he made the disclosures as a result of his belief that the US intelligence community had gone too far, infringing on civil liberties.
