Let's be honest about Russia's role in the Edward Snowden matter

[MADem]

29. Correa knows that Menendez isn't the decider, though. He knows all roads lead through John Kerry.

He also knows that if he turns his back on US trade with preferential tariffs, that there will be increased unemployment in his country. I think there's still some discussion going on--the fist waving and drama are all for the cameras.

One way it could be made to work for him is if China does some SERIOUS debt forgiveness (he owes them a bundle). I can't see them doing that (though it could happen)--they like having people over a barrel. They also like a bit of tension, the tug and yank of economic interests intersecting.

Someone has to step up and tell Correa "Hey dude, we'll buy your roses and broccoli and bananas and so forth," and they'd better do it on the same or similar terms as USA does, otherwise there will be adverse effects in Ecuador. For us, it's not a big deal--we can find other outlets for what Ecuador sells us. I will say they provide very good product, reliable, well packaged, nicely shipped, no e-coli or other recall problems, so we do benefit as well, but we aren't up against it the way they are.

If they "take" Snowden, they may well just shove him in the trunk and take him to the Moscow Embassy. Then he can compare notes with his 'pal' Julian (who keeps trying to steal his limelight) about who has the nicest room at the Hotel Ecuador!!!

The only way Cuba would do it, I agree, is if someone stepped up to the plate and replaced the cash that flows to their island by way of US people-to-people programs, the limited trade we do with them on a humanitarian basis, and the money sent by family members back to the island. That latter piece is problematic--people now are allowed to send money home to their family, and they wouldn't want to have to go back to the old "sneak it out through Canada/Mexico" routine of years past.

I wonder if Snowden has run out of underwear, yet, and has had to use the sink in the men's room to do his laundry? Such a glamorous life 'in transit' ... ugh !