I'd like to argue Snowden is as pure as many of us wish he was in this case, but he, too, must unfortunately play the games of the nation-states that are more powerful than him.

Snowden is right in talking about MTProto's issues, and this is a case where he can talk about something both he and the Russian government dislike, albeit for different reasons. It's a fine line to walk to maintain integrity.

No. I'm not suggesting that it's 100% true, I don't know the facts. I am, however, suggesting that it is probable.