Somewhat Update on Edward Snowden

This afternoon I read an article titled “Snowden: mass surveillance making us less safe” by the Associated Press, which was written on October 12. Edward Snowden, as most of us know, is the National Security Agency analyst who has leaked information to Russia about United States surveillance within our country. Edward Snowden’s reason for committing this crime is that he believes the U.S. government is abusing its power and is limiting the success of our nation. The U.S. has filed charges against him for espionage and Snowden has been granted refuge in Russia. Edward Snowden recently spoke in Moscow when he received the Sam Adams Award from a group of retired U.S. National Security officers. Edward Snowden has gotten quite used to Russia in the time that he has been there and it has been said that he may never return to the U.S.

My opinion about the situation with Edward Snowden is quite uncertain. I feel slightly disappointed that he betrayed the U.S.; however he did have good intentions for doing so. In my opinion the central government has gained too much power for its own good. The government has already denied our right to privacy as it records our phone conversations and observes what we do online. The fact that the government is in charge of drone strikes terrifies me because the drones are too destructive and they aren’t known for their accuracy inaccurate.

On the other hand, there is no reason to give this information to foreign countries. The powerful tool that Edward Snowden has given to Russia is frightening, even though Russia is currently an ally. This situation with Edward Snowden has not only put stress on our relationship with Russia, but it has also endangered the national security of the U.S.

The fact that Edward Snowden was given an award by retired U.S. officers makes American patriotism seem weak. Overall we did not learn anything new about Edward Snowden’s exact whereabouts due to these officers discretion. We also do not know what effect this act of espionage will have on the safety of the United States, but something makes me feel like it will not be pretty.

Moscow is the capital of Russia and because of this is a place of serious political importance. The president of Russia, Vladimir Putin, also resides here. Russia and America are currently allies but have had some conflict in the past.