Trump Says He Will Answer Questions from Russia Investigation Official

The President of the United States stated he is 'looking forward' to answering questions from the special counsel regarding 'Russian interference' in the U.S. elections and will do so 'under oath.' On February 4, Donald Trump, in response to reporters' questions, expressed his willingness to answer inquiries from Robert Mueller, the investigator of the Russia case: 'In fact, I am looking forward to this [question and answer].' Mr. Trump added that he would do this 'under oath,' meaning he will legally and formally swear that what he says is true. According to estimates from U.S. intelligence agencies, which have also been provided to Congress, the Russian government is accused of interfering in the U.S. presidential election to benefit the Republican candidate, Donald Trump, and to the detriment of the Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton. The U.S. Department of Justice appointed Robert Mueller, former director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as 'special counsel' to lead the investigation on April 27. Mr. Mueller formed a grand jury in August to review documents related to this case, and then in the fall, the first charges and subsequent arrests were made. Russia has denied the allegations of interference in the elections. Donald Trump has also emphatically rejected any 'collusion' between his campaign and Russia, describing the formation of the special counsel as 'a partisan witch hunt.' On February 3, the special counsel's office posed questions to Jeff Sessions, the U.S. Attorney General, and the following day, it was reported that Mark Pompeo, the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), was also questioned. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the White House spokesperson, stated that the government would 'fully cooperate with the special counsel.' Donald Trump also mentioned that he was 'not at all concerned' about the meeting with Mr. Sessions after the news of the special counsel's visit was announced.