It is difficult to imagine the gigantic balls he has to go against the most powerful regime. People earlier had idea about the govt snooping through their personal life but never had a concrete proof to confirm their claim. He came out for the people and risking his own life for the purpose. I doubt that he will be killed by US now because of the public figure he has now but I definitely he will be treated like Chelsea Manning or worst than Aaron Swartz in an attempt to create example out of him.