Washington, May 29 (RHC)-- The National Security Agency whistleblower Edward Snowden has spoken out in his first interview with a U.S. television network. In his comments, Snowden rejected U.S. government attempts to dismiss his views by painting him as a "low-level analyst."

NBC aired an hour-long interview with Snowden Wednesday night conducted by anchor Brian Williams in Moscow last week. Snowden told Williams he believes his disclosures of mass surveillance had helped his country rather than caused harm.

The first of Snowden’s disclosures were revealed one year ago next week. In his interview, Ed Snowden blamed the State Department for forcing him to remain in Russia after revoking his passport.

Snowden’s temporary asylum in Russia is due to expire in August. He faces up to 30 years in prison in the United States for multiple charges under the Espionage Act. Speaking to CBS’ "This Morning," U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry lashed out at Snowden’s comments, telling him to "man up" and return to face charges in the United States.