MOSCOW. Dec 1 (Interfax) - Former CIA agent Edward Snowden is set to receive Russian citizenship, while keeping his U.S. passport, Snowden's lawyer Anatoly Kucherena told Interfax.
"He's decided to keep his U.S. passport and also receive a Russian one. Russian legislation allows for that," Kucherena said.
The runaway American has to collect the entire package of documents required to apply for Russian citizenship, he said.
"I've given him the full list of necessary documents. I think he'll collect them by the end of the week, and we'll file an application for citizenship," Kucherena said.
Snowden leaked information about the global surveillance programs of the U.S. security services to the media in 2013. The leak triggered public outcry. The U.S. authorities charged Snowden in absentia with espionage and misappropriation of state property. He fled the United States, first going to Hong Kong before ending up in Russia. The latter granted Snowden permanent residency.
Kucherena said he does not foresee any problems with the former U.S. security service employee being issued a Russian passport. "Edward has been living in the Russian Federation for over five years, he has a permanent residency permit, and I don't see any impediments to him receiving a Russian passport," he said.
As to his knowledge of the Russian language, which is mandatory in order to be naturalized in Russia, Kucherena said, "That isn't a problem. He's a clever person and has the relevant skills."
Kucherena said a month ago that Snowden, who had recently received a permanent residence permit from Russia, had decided to apply for Russian citizenship.