If he knew better he would have been running a startup and laughing his way to the bank.
This man is obsessed with one idea. Freedom. Or, his version of it and such people are really really unlikely to burn up their cause for something like this. This is a man who spent nights awake working on a cryptographic framework for his baby. This is a man who spent months trying to decrypt files while on the run. This is a man who hardly lives a life of luxury and spends almost every second of his time towards his cause. Do you think that he is rational enough to do anything else?
On the other hand, what does the USA have to lose in terms of PR? They're one of the most powerful countries in the world and they can call the shots for now, and unfortunately people know that. The shame of losing their secrets on the other hand...
I really wouldn't be surprised that the women would have been chosen for some sexual history with him or something if possible. It's a longshot, but this will become a trial by media. A blot no matter how small will overshadow the leaking of the documents, and the know that. Why? Because it makes for a better story. Think about it.
Would you rather see an hour long TV special about 16000 leaked war logs and their statistical correlations to war time deaths? As well as strategic failures that might get a bit dry?
Or, the story of an outlaw on the run :flash picture: Out for a cause :cue music: with a dark twist? Did he or did he not? With an exclusive panel to debate it.
I think that's your answer right there. Most people don't give a damn and that blot will permeate through and cloud their vision of what's going to follow, and it's not like they were eagerly awaiting it in the first place.