Russian journo Andrei Soldatov: #Snowden is being controlled by Russian intelligence: http://t.co/lb3DeR4Xtp

— Jeff Gauvin (@JeffersonObama) August 7, 2013

The asylum decision gives Russia cover to depict itself as a defender of human rights, pointing a finger to deflect criticism of its own poor record on rights including free speech. But the secrecy that surrounded Snowden’s time at the Moscow airport and his unwillingness so far to talk to the press indicates he is being controlled by Russian intelligence, Andrei Soldatov, a Russian journalist who co-authored a book on the Russian intelligence services said.

“Does he have independent sources of information and communication? My impression is that he has none, which means he’s not his own master,” Soldatov said.

He said Kucherena’s statements about concerns for Snowden’s safety do not hold water.

“We are all perfectly aware that Snowden, who has just received asylum, does not face any danger in Russia,” Soldatov said. “American intelligence does not kidnap or assassinate people in Russia, that’s a fact. This is a just a pretext.”

Read more here: http://www.adn.com/2013/08/02/3004569/lawyer-snowden-has-a-place-to.html#storylink=cpy