Trump’s national security adviser resigns over Russia links

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan24) – Michael Flynn, the national security adviser for US President Donald Trump, quit on Monday after reports had revealed he discussed information with the Russian Ambassador to the United States before Trump took office.

Flynn is said to have misled US officials about the discussion he had with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak regarding US sanctions on Moscow.

Previously, media reported the White House had been warned weeks ago by the Justice Department about Flynn’s contacts in late January.

Moreover, the Department mentioned Flynn could be vulnerable to Russian blackmail.

The resignation of Flynn may slow Trump’s fostering ties with the President of Russian Vladimir Putin.

His resignation followed after Trump, through a spokesman, declined to back the national security advisor publicly.

The advisor had told the US Vice President Mike Pence he had not discussed the US embargos with Russian officials.

However, the transcript of the communication described by US officials showed the topic had been addressed during his conversation with the Russian ambassador.

"Unfortunately, because of the fast pace of events, I inadvertently briefed the vice president-elect and others with incomplete information regarding my phone calls with the Russian ambassador,” Flynn said in his resignation letter.

“I have sincerely apologized to the president and the vice president, and they have accepted my apology,” Flynn added.

Retired General Joseph Keith Kellogg, who was chief of staff of the White House National Security Council, replaced Flynn after his departure.

Ret. Gen. Kellogg will serve as the acting national security adviser until President Trump selects a person to fill the post.

Editing by Karzan Sulaivany