The Russia investigation just took a major leap forward—straight into the Oval Office.
Featured Video
Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who is heading the Justice Department’s investigation into Russia meddling in the election and whether members of President Donald Trump’s campaign colluded with the country to help influence the election, is reportedly seeking important documents related to several key moments of Trump’s tumultuous first few months in office.
The New York Times reports that Mueller is seeking documents related to Trump asking former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and the dismissal of former FBI Director James Comey.
Here’s what you need to know:
Advertisement
- Mueller wants a lot: Mueller requested details from 13 different areas, causing Trump administration lawyers to pour over White House emails and asking officials if they have documents that would satisfy the special counsel’s request.
- It’s all about Trump: Mueller has reportedly cast a wide net in his investigation—which also includes whether Trump obstructed justice by firing Comey—and his latest document request backs up reporting that Trump himself is a focus of his sprawling investigation, as the Times points out.
- Key moments to be examined: Mueller is reportedly looking into the meeting Trump had with Russian officials in the Oval Office in May, the day after he fired Comey. During the meeting, Trump allegedly called the former FBI director a “nut job” and said firing him relieved “great pressure” off of him. The ouster of Michael Flynn in February and the infamous June 2016 meeting between Trump campaign officials and a Russian lawyer are also subjects of Mueller’s request, the Times reports.
- Time is of the essence: Ty Cobb, a Trump lawyer hired to help with the Russia investigation defense (who recently got into some hot water after being overheard talking about the probe), has told Mueller’s team that the documents will be handed over this week.
You can read all of the New York Times’ report here.
