Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday characterized National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden's long stay at a Moscow airport as an unwelcome present foisted on Russia by the United States. In comments reported by Russian news agencies during a meeting with students, Putin noted that Snowden flew to Moscow on June 23 "without invitation," intending only to transit to another country.

But Putin says the United States intimidated other countries against accepting Snowden, effectively blocking him from flying further.

"Such a present to us. Merry Christmas," he was quoted as telling the students on the Gulf of Finland island of Gogland.

Which of the following is the central idea for this excerpt?

1. Putin is irritated with the U. S. because Edward Snowden remains in Russia.

2. Putin considers it a gift that the U. S. has allowed Edward Snowden to remain in Russia.

3. Russian news agencies uncovered that Edward Snowden was not invited to Russia.

4. Russian news agencies uncovered that Edward Snowden intends to return to the U. S.