Snowden says he kept NSA documents from Russian, Chinese intelligence (VIDEO)

National Security Agency whistleblower Edward Snowden spoke out for the first time since seeking asylum in Russia in an extensive, encrypted interview with James Risen of the New York Times.

Snowden denied accusations that he had leaked NSA secrets to the Russians and Chinese, thereby committing treason.

He said that he gave all the classified documents to journalists in Hong Kong, and did not keep any copies for himself "because it wouldn't serve the public interest." 

Last week, privacy advocates visited Snowden in Russia, where he received the Sam Adams Award for Integrity in Intelligence Work.

RT's Ameera David speaks with Jesselyn Radack with the Government Accountability Project.