Publication

This commentary argues that the diplomatic incident surrounding the status of former National Security Agency official Edward Snowden exposes flaws in the US approach toward Russia. This is because Moscow’s refusal to facilitate the extradition of Snowden is borne out of domestic political circumstances. President Putin faces considerable domestic opposition and standing up to Washington is a calculated strategy aimed at boosting his popularity at home. Given this situation, the author concludes there is little reason for the Obama administration to continue its "reset" policy toward Russia.