MOSCOW — The father of National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden says on Russian television that he is grateful to the Kremlin for protecting his son.

Speaking on state Rossiya 24 television in remarks broadcast Wednesday, Lon Snowden of Allentown, Pa., thanked President Vladimir Putin and his government for the "courage" they have shown in keeping his son safe.

Addressing his son, Lon Snowden said that "your family is well and we love you." He added that "I hope to see you soon, but most of all I want you to be safe."

The younger Snowden has been stuck in the transit zone of Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport since arriving from Hong Kong on June 23. Russia is considering his request for temporary asylum.