Allegations Fly: Bondi Launches Probe on 2016 Russia Intel

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has initiated a grand jury investigation into allegations against Obama administration officials for manipulating intelligence on Russia's involvement in the 2016 U.S. elections. This follows claims by intelligence community figures and counter-claims by both political sides, escalating the controversy over alleged election interference.

In a significant development, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has directed the initiation of a grand jury probe concerning allegations that members of former President Barack Obama's administration tampered with intelligence reports regarding Russia's interference in the 2016 elections. This decision underscores the continuing controversy surrounding election-related intelligence assessments.

The Justice Department announced the creation of a strike force in response to claims by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard about purported misuse of the U.S. intelligence services. Her comments suggested that former Obama officials could face prosecution over alleged manipulation of Russian interference assessments, prompting Republican President Donald Trump to amplify these accusations.

Reports suggest that Bondi has personally instructed a federal prosecutor to present evidence to a grand jury. This move follows Trump's unsubstantiated accusations of treason against Obama. Meanwhile, the Obama camp has dismissed these allegations, labeling them as attempts to divert public attention. An intelligence assessment released in 2017 acknowledged Russia's disinformation campaign, but found no evidence of impact on voting outcomes.

(With inputs from agencies.)