Future Charges in Russian Investigation Suggested
John Ratcliffe, who heads the Central Intelligence Agency, indicated that there may be future charges related to an ongoing investigation into Russian activities during an interview with Fox News on Sunday.
In a separate context, Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, claimed to have “overwhelming evidence” suggesting that former President Barack Obama and his national security team intentionally distorted and politicized intelligence following Donald Trump’s 2016 victory. During her appearance on “Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo,” Ratcliffe emphasized the need to hold accountable those who might have lied under oath when asked about potential indictments.
“That’s why DNI Gabbard has made referrals. We keep sharing intelligence that supports the Department of Justice’s fair approach, addressing past stains on the system,” he stated.
“This is a new Department of Justice and FBI, providing insight into how these individuals might have worked to orchestrate the hoax. We understand they did something, but now we need clarity on the mechanics of it,” Ratcliffe added.
He also rejected claims that the investigation into Russian interference was purely driven by vengeance. Instead, he argued that Trump’s reelection signified a public demand for accountability and transparency regarding what he termed a hoax.
“I think that’s why it seems like the left is reacting so furiously, Maria. They’re framing it as vindictive, as if it’s a call for retaliation. But it’s really more of a statement,” he remarked.
“We’re certain it was a hoax. Now, we just want to figure out how it happened to prevent a recurrence. This process of understanding is vital to ensure similar tactics, like those from Steele in 2016, are not repeated,” he concluded.
A recent CIA memo raises questions about whether former CIA director John Brennan and FBI director James Comey may have misrepresented facts while testifying under oath. Both officials had consistently asserted in 2017 that Russian President Vladimir Putin interfered to aid Trump in the election, a claim not supported by Steele’s documents.
Nevertheless, Gabbard released information that directly challenges their assertions, suggesting a different narrative. This document called into question the credibility of their statements and their understanding of relevant materials used in the assessment.