Edward Snowden marks one year in Russia as U.S. fugitive …

Fugitive U.S. intelligence agent Edward Snowden on Thursday marked one year of political asylum in Russia where he continues to live a life shrouded in mystery.

Little has been heard of the movements of the former National Security Agency contractor since he first obtained provisional leave to remain in Russia after spending according to the official version a month in the transit area of Moscows Sheremetyevo airport.

In April, he made a shock appearance on an annual question-and-answer session with President Vladimir Putin and posed pointed questions about surveillance of Russias population. I would like to ask you: Does Russia intercept, store or analyze, in any way, the communications of millions of individuals? he asked in a recorded message, appearing against a black background wearing a dark jacket and grey t-shirt.

Mr. Snowdens lawyer, Anatoly Kucherena, was quoted by the state news agency RIA Novosti on Thursday as saying he expected a decision soon on his application for a renewal of his residence permit and that Mr. Snowden could stay at least until the decision is made.

Analysts believe Mr. Snowden is still useful to Russia, both practically and politically. Independent defence analyst Pevel Felgenhauer said this week that while Mr. Snowden no longer has access to new information, he can explain how U.S. spy agencies operate.

As a consultant on how the NSA works he is very useful, he was quoted as saying in Novaya Gazeta.

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