I find it very odd that this article, along with most, repeatedly claims that Snowden needs to have a travel document in order to claim asylum. Many asylum seekers have no travel document at all when they enter the country where they seek asylum. In the UK most asylum seekers have no legal way to enter the country, as you technically can't switch from most other types of visa - they simply have to arrive and claim asylum on arrival.
There are two problems: First he'd need to be let onto a flight without valid travel documents. Secondly, he'd need for that flight to actually arrive at a location where he will not be apprehended and handed over to US authorities.
Russian asylum will alleviate both issues: It gives him easier access to commercial flights, and it makes it politically far more difficult for those European states that for example were willing to prevent Morales' plane access on a mere rumour he was aboard to justify forcing down a plane he is on. Consider the political fallout if an Aeroflot plane with someone granted political asylum by Russia gets turned back.. Or for that matter another diplomatic mission with him aboard their plane with asylum status.
There's a simple but significant distinction here - it doesn't work for Air travel. And there's no tunnel from Russia to Bolivia ..
(also noteworthy is that most nations need you to be within their borders before you can apply for asylum. It appears Snowden would much rather have an invite before he arrives. This is ruling out most destinations)
The trouble is that Snowden is not yet permitted to travel out of the Russian airport. He is seeking asylum in Russia because he can't get out of there without their permission.
