The father of the American whistleblower Edward Snowden says that the Federal Bureau of Investigation has asked him to visit his son in Moscow and he has declined the offer, according to media reports.
Lonnie Snowden said he wanted to know the intention behind FBI's offer.
While describing his son as a "true patriot" who he said had "made America a more democratic country" by leaking National Security Agency's secret surveillance programs, Lonnie urged his son to stay on in Russia till he feels confident of getting a fair trial back in the United States.
"Edward, I hope you are watching this," said Lonnie Snowden in an interview with the Russian state television. "Your family is well. We love you. We hope you are healthy, we hope you are well, I hope to see you soon, but most of all I want you to be safe. I want you to find a safe haven," said Lonnie.
In the interview, the father of the American whistleblower also thanked the Russian government for protecting his son.
"I also would like to thank President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government for what I believe to be their courage and strength and conviction to keep my son safe," said Lonnie. "Like any mother or father who loves their child, I love my son and I will be forever grateful for what you have done, very much."
Edward Snowden is currently holed up in the transit zone of Moscow's airport.
Bradley Manning's sentence of 136 years in jail on 20 of 22 counts including espionage Wednesday, might discourage Snowden from even considering the idea of returning despite assurances of a fair trial..