MOSCOW – Russia this week suggested it would consider offering asylum to whistleblower Edward Snowden, as well as the trendy three-bedroom loft once occupied by now-imprisoned members of the band Pussy Riot, “since it’s going to be empty for a long time – practically indefinitely,” said Vladimir Putin.

Since leaking details about the U.S. government program Prism, which he alleges collects the personal data of American citizens, Snowden checked out of his hotel in Hong Kong. His current whereabouts are unknown.

“This great apartment is just going to waste,” said Russian MP Robert Schlegel. “Vaulted ceilings, heat and hot water, laundry right in the unit – it is the least we can offer to a champion of free speech such as Mr. Snowden.”