Ex-White House official Priebus quizzed in Russia probe

Former White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus has been reportedly questioned by special counsel Robert Mueller's team in charge of the Russia-related investigation into Moscow's alleged meddling in the 2016 presidential elections that swept Donald Trump to power.

Priebus was "voluntarily interviewed" by Mueller's team, his lawyer William Burck, Xinhua quoted US news outlet Politico as saying.

"He was happy to answer all of their questions," Burck said.

The interview was part of Mueller's investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the US presidential election 2016, as well as any ties between Moscow and Trump campaign associates.

Trump has, however, not been accused of any wrongdoing so far.

According to Politico, Priebus had been preparing for several weeks for the interview. It also revealed on Thursday that Trump's attorneys were mulling an interview between Mueller and the President.

Previously working as chairman of the Republican National Committee, Priebus served as Trump's first Chief of Staff before being pushed out late July for failure to rein in a freewheeling White House and advance the administration's legislative agenda.

He is viewed as a key figure in understanding some of the most controversial Russia-related incidents, including Trump's firing of former FBI Director James Comey who at that time led the Russian probe and White House's meetings with Russian officials.

Reports said investigators are expected to interview a spate of other former and current White House aides, including former Press Secretary Sean Spicer, current chief counsel Don McGahn and Communications Director Hope Hicks.

Mueller has convened a grand jury to assist his probe and his team consists of seasoned lawyers.

--IANS

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