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As Donald Trump’s presidency drew to a close, a highly classified file concerning Russian election interference mysteriously disappeared from the White House, sparking concerns among intelligence officials. The sudden absence of this sensitive data raised fears of potential breaches or public exposure, prompting extensive searches to locate the missing file.
Photo from Google
Critical Intelligence in Disarray
The absent file contained crucial intelligence related to Russian activities, compiled by the US and its allies, shedding light on Vladimir Putin‘s purported efforts to support Trump’s victory in the 2016 election. Access to this highly sensitive data was restricted to individuals with top-tier security clearance and was housed at the CIA’s headquarters.
Mark Meadows, serving as Chief of Staff during Trump’s final days, oversaw the handling of this file, a significant part of the investigation into Russian interference. Trump’s partial declassification of select documents prompted legal concerns and extensive reviews before any disclosure.
Multiple copies circulated within the White House, but some were later retrieved and altered after distribution. Despite Trump’s directives, the Justice Department withheld certain documents, raising questions about the disappearance of the unaltered file during the presidential transition.
READ ALSO: Putin would would like to see ‘more constructive’ U.S. president towards Russia, spokesman says.
Conflicting Theories and Denials
Conflicting theories emerged regarding the whereabouts of the missing file. An assistant to Meadows suggested the possibility that an unedited version might have been taken home by Meadows himself.
However, Meadows’ legal representation vehemently denied any mishandling of classified information, affirming a strict adherence to established protocols governing the handling of such sensitive material.
READ ALSO: US says Ukraine war putting ‘considerable strain’ on Russia’s economy.
