- The Washington Times - Monday, July 16, 2018

President Trump blamed the Russian meddling investigation as one of the reasons U.S.-Russia relations are so tense, hours before his meeting with President Vladimir Putin.

He blamed U.S. “foolishness and stupidity” and the “Rigged Witch Hunt” of causing the rocky relationship between the two nations.

Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs promoted the president’s tweet with two words: “We agree.”

He also accused former President Barack Obama of covering intelligence about Russian interference in the election because he believed the Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton would win the election.

The Justice Department indicted 12 Russians on Friday for hacking the DNC during the 2016 election.

Mr. Trump confirmed at a press conference with Theresa May in London ahead of Monday’s summit that he would address Russian meddling with Mr. Putin during their meeting.

However, Mr. Trump told CBS news that he was going into the summit with low expectations.

• Gabriella Muñoz can be reached at gmunoz@washingtontimes.com.

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