Putin: Russia didn't question Snowden for intelligence

Russian security serviced didn't question former US intelligence contractor Edward Snowden over intelligence of Russia, President Vladimir Putin said Thursday.

"We do not work and have never worked with him in the operative respect, we do not ask him questions about what and how was done in regard to Russia in the unit with which he was formerly employed," Putin told an annual press conference.

Putin said he would never met Snowden personally as he was too busy. "Millions of people reconsidered their views, including big political leaders," thanks to the whistleblower, said the Russian president.

"When I came across it, I though how and where he is going to live further? This is noble but difficult choice. We gave him a chance to live his way on conditions he wouldn't harm US interests. We just gave him asylum," he added.