Former US spy agency contractor granted documents that will allow him to leave the transit zone for the first time since 23 June
Russia issued whistleblower Edward Snowden documents on Wednesday that will allow him to leave the transit zone of Moscow's Sheremyetovo airport, ending his month-long stay there, according to law enforcement and airport sources.
The Federal Immigration Service has issued documents confirming that Snowden's asylum request is being considered, which will allow him to leave the transit zone, state news agency RIA Novosti quoted a law enforcement source as saying.
Snowden is to meet with his lawyer at the airport later on Wednesday, according to an airport source, Reuters reported.
The documents will reportedly allow Snowden to move freely about the country. Immigration authorities declined immediate comment.
Egypt's army chief has called for demonstrations on Friday to give the military a mandate to confront "violence and potential terrorism". Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said he was not calling for public unrest and wanted national reconciliation.
