Vladimir Putin is reportedly considering handing Edward Snowden over to the US in an effort to “curry favour” with Donald Trump - who has branded the NSA leaker a “traitor” and called for his execution.

US intelligence has intercepted evidence of high-level discussions within the Russian government over the potential benefits for Moscow of sending Mr Snowden back to the US to face trial, according to NBC News.

American spies have also reportedly confirmed parts of an explosive dossier about Mr Trump compiled by a former MI6 agent.

US operatives have not verified the more salacious details in the file but the fact that parts have been found to be accurate may strengthen its overall credibility, CNN reported.