Edward Snowden has withdrawn his request for political asylum in Russia. (Photo:The Guardian)

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov, has said that former NSA contractor Edward Snowden withdrew his request for political asylum in Russia as soon as President Vladimir Putin made clear that he would be welcome only if he stopped “his work aimed at bringing harm” to the US. Peskov said on Tuesday that Snowden is staying in the transit area of Sheremetyevo airport in Moscow. Peskov’s statement followed Putin’s announcement that Snowden’s request will be considered only if he stops revealing secrets related to US interests. Putin affirmed that Edward Snowden is not a Russian secret agent and that Russian intelligence agencies have not collaborated with him.