Trump election: Former FBI boss to lead Russia inquiry

Robert Mueller is a former prosecutor who served as FBI chief from 2001 to 2013

A former FBI boss has been named special counsel to oversee an inquiry into Russia's alleged meddling in the election and any Trump campaign ties.

In naming Robert Mueller, the deputy attorney general said it was in the public interest to have an outsider. The appointment has been widely praised by politicians from both sides.


Calls for a special prosecutor had mounted since President Donald Trump fired the most recent FBI director, James Comey, last week. The FBI and Congress are looking into potential links between Mr Trump's campaign team and Russia.

US intelligence agencies believe Moscow tried to tip the election in favour of the Republican.