General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsSnowden's question to Putin was not coordinated by the Russian government in any way
Putin has an annual question-and-answer session which is broadcast on Russian state TV. Many times ordinary Russian citizens are able to ask the Russian president random questions and he does not know the questions in advance.
Snowden's question to Putin was completely random. The Russian government had no idea what the question would be.
Snowden would never allow himself to be used as a propaganda tool for a foreign government. He is a hero. It was his intention to hold Putin's feet to the fire and he did.
Any accusations to the contrary are baseless and without merit.
Thinkingabout
(30,058 posts)Ask his questions. There is a lot to learn about Russia, spying is one of their best abilities. I don't see big lines at Russian embassies to get a permit to enter, let's see how many line up now after the Snowden show.
arcane1
(38,613 posts)If this is a show where "ordinary Russian citizens" can ask questions, how did Snowden get on the air to ask one? Is there a lottery?
As one who trusts none of the players in the ongoing NSA scandal, I find it hard to believe that he just so happened to get lucky and be chosen for that Q&A.
If George Bush had an annual Q&A like this, I sure as hell wouldn't trust it!
Cali_Democrat
(30,439 posts)It had nothing to do with the fact he's Edward Snowden. The Russian government was caught off guard.
arcane1
(38,613 posts)"These nations, including Russia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Nicaragua, and Ecuador have my gratitude and respect for being the first to stand against human rights violations carried out by the powerful rather than the powerless." Edward Snowden
tabasco
(22,974 posts)LOL