MOSCOW (Sputnik) — On Friday, US media reports suggested citing unnamed US intelligence officials that Russian leadership is considering turning Snowden over to the United States.
"Russia has no reasons for extradition of Edward Snowden to the United States… The issue regarding Snowden has been solved within the framework of the existing legislation. Edward does not violate laws. No one in Russia considers his extradition, it is out of the question," Kucherena said.
Meanwhile, Snowden himself mocked the report, saying on Twitter earlier in the day that "Finally: irrefutable evidence that I never cooperated with Russian intel. No country trades away spies, as the rest would fear they're next."
Finally: irrefutable evidence that I never cooperated with Russian intel. No country trades away spies, as the rest would fear they're next. https://t.co/YONqZ1gYqm
— Edward Snowden (@Snowden) 10 февраля 2017 г.
In 2013 Snowden, who started revealing the information about US global surveillance, sought refuge in Russia after he fled the United States in order to escape up to 30 years in prison on charges of espionage and theft of government property.
In August 2014, the whistleblower received a three-year residence permit to live in Russia, which was later extended until 2020.