President Trump doubled down Monday on his defenses over Helsinki criticism, denying that he conceded anything to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The president accused the “corrupt” media of misrepresenting the relationship between the two leaders.
When you hear the Fake News talking negatively about my meeting with President Putin, and all that I gave up, remember, I gave up NOTHING, we merely talked about future benefits for both countries. Also, we got along very well, which is a good thing, except for the Corrupt Media!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 23, 2018
Mr. Trump has repeatedly used this argument since backlash began to grow over his joint press conference with Mr. Putin last week.
Critics from both political parties have denounced the president’s comments.
Some prominent Democrats, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, suggested that the Russians may be manipulating the president by holding damaging information over his head.
Democrats on the House Intelligence Committee attempted, but were ultimately voted down by Republicans, to subpoena Mr. Trump’s translator, who was the only other member of the U.S. delegation in the private meeting between the two leaders.
Reps. Adam Schiff and Eric Swalwell argued the subpoena was necessary to determine what the president said to Mr. Putin, including any concessions or agreements he may have made.
• Gabriella Muñoz can be reached at gmunoz@washingtontimes.com.
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