Trump's Nominee for National Intelligence Expresses 'Deep Concern' About Russia's Actions

Dan Coats, President Trump's nominee to manage the National Intelligence, expressed 'deep concern' over Russia's 'assertiveness in the international arena' during a Senate security committee meeting. He stated that he would support investigations into allegations of 'cyber interference by Moscow.' Coats, a former senator, appeared at the Senate confirmation hearing on March 1. His comments come as President Trump has spoken in various speeches and interviews about the potential benefits of improving relations with Russia, including cooperation between Washington and Moscow in the fight against terrorism. However, several members of Trump's administration have taken a hardline stance against the Russian government, particularly regarding the maintenance of existing sanctions due to Russia's annexation of Crimea. On Tuesday, Coats said, 'Russia's assertiveness in global issues is something I view with deep concern. This is something we [in America] must monitor with open eyes and a proper degree of skepticism.' The nominee for the U.S. National Intelligence has told senators that he supports investigations into allegations against Russia regarding cyber interference in elections to influence public opinion and outcomes. Moscow has consistently denied these allegations. If Coats is confirmed by Congress, he will lead an agency that raised allegations of cyber interference against the Kremlin last January. Coats stated, 'I think this is something that needs to be investigated.' After initially expressing doubts about cyber interference, Trump accepted this issue in comments made in January. The U.S. intelligence community is composed of separate organizations that operate both independently and collaboratively to monitor security and gather intelligence. The 'intelligence community,' consisting of security agencies in the military and civilian security officials and analysts, is managed by the 'Director of National Intelligence,' who is directly accountable to the President. Previously, James Clapper was the Director of National Intelligence, who announced his resignation from this position on the eve of the power transition to Donald Trump.