MOSCOW (Sputnik) — Former US National Security Agency (NSA) contractor Edward Snowden is ready to return to the United States if he is guaranteed a fair trial, his lawyer in Russia Anatoly Kucherena said Tuesday.
"Edward Snowden is ready to go there [to the United States]," Kucherena said, during a press conference in Moscow.
He added that a fair and impartial trial is essential for the Snowden's return to his home country.
In 2013, Snowden leaked information about extensive and illegal surveillance operations of both US citizens and foreign leaders conducted by US authorities globally, which sparked domestic and international controversy.
In August 2013, the Snowden was granted asylum and later a residency permit for three years in Russia.
The United States brought a number of charges against Snowden, including espionage and government property theft. If deported to the United States, he could face up to 30 years in prison.
