That's not what I'm saying, the leaking to a journalist is the defection.

The leaker is on the best behavior to impress their new handler. They're suckers and getting played.

An analogy to what Snowden did: How would you feel if you had a significant other that promised themselves to you, but behind your back, connected with someone else, some jester/stranger/charlatan. Hurtfully, you find they were eager to move mountains for them, and all the while criticizing your mere existence as a person. It'd be safe to say they've broke their vow, even though they haven't officially acknowledged yet.