Edward Snowden recently leaked top-secret U.S. government information to the public and immediately took refuse in Russia. There he contacted a couple of prominent Russians to help him gain asylum in Russia. However, the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, himself wants Snowden to leave the country and find refuge elsewhere as soon as possible. There are ties with America that he does not want to break and he fears that Snowden's stay, if prolonged, will most likely ruin their relations.
Putin's desire to have Snowden leave Russia is entirely reasonable. Russia and America have only kept good relations for a few years now and it would be hard to keep the balance if something so crucial as a traitor against America is being supported and received refuge in Russia. Especially with America recently accusing Russia of "organizing a "propaganda platform" for Mr. Snowden," misunderstandings can sprout between the two countries and can once more cause conflicts, as such during the Cold War. Putin's indifferent attitude towards Snowden and his consequences themselves are interestingly honest, however. Though he doesn't like the idea of having a man wanted in America in Russia, he definitely has neither any ideas nor sympathy for Snowden. It's a little perplexing that Putin wants Snowden out to be able to keep good relations with America yet has so little care for Snowden and the issue he caused in America. Perhaps Putin could gain a little more interest in the government issue going on in a country that he wishes to keep a steady relationship with. As for Snowden, if he wants to "continue [his] activities..to fight for human rights" because he feels that "the U.S. is violating certain international norms, is intruding into private life and [his] goal is to fight against this," he should do this in the U.S., where the "unfair" activities are happening in, instead of seeking refuge in other countries, creating problems for them and sending mixed messages to the audience.
Article: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887323394504578607911467319492.html?mod=WSJ_World_LEFTSecondNews
I think your analysis is very well organized and stated. I don't really agree with your opinion on Snowden coming into America to cause more trouble. I think it will be better if America catches him elsewhere where he cannot do any more harm against America. Otherwise, it was a good report and interesting to read.
ReplyDeleteI think you balance your first paragraph of background information and with an extended commentary in the second paragraph that gives your stance very well. Although in my opinion, I do agree that Snowden should own up to his problems by coming back to the United States, I could also entertain the idea of taking refuge in other countries to let the people understand the situation with the NSA and formulate opinions of their own.
ReplyDeleteYour analysis of the article was well formatted. I like how you gave an example of why Putin urges Snowden to leave Russia. I agree that Putin want Snowden to find different refuge because he doesn't want a poor relations with the America. I also agree that Snowden should continue to fight for human rights on America as a warning to the U.S.
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