"Why couldn't Russia offer asylum with no strings attached?"

Well, just offer it to him, yes. Putin is wimping out? So, there's no country willing to help this guy? Not even Russia?

The guy uncovered unethical and unjust spying and surveillance on their own people probably breaking numerous laws (not to mention Constitutional). 1984, anyone?

So, what's the problem? I thought Putin had a backbone. I guess not.

"I think Snowden should have gone straight to Russia (or possibly China) and asked for help. Rather than going to Hong Kong. It needs to be a really big and strong country to support him. Alternatively he should have gone straight to a country that really doesn't like the USA and would help him on principle. However, many such countries are not big on freedom of speech etc - which Snowden values. He's really stuck between a rock and a hard place, but I think Russia would have been his best bet."

Duh, he is in Russia. Well, the airport. I bet Putin sent him a message with a smartphone or small TV with a video/movie, 'The Terminal.' Putin: "Хорошо повеселиться!" Snowden: "Да. Большое спасибо." (whispers: 'Jerk!")