Every major American intelligence agency found that there was such interference by Russia during the election. The issue remains under investigation by U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller who has charged members of Trump’s campaign as well as Russians. Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin Monday in Helsinki, Finland.

"During today's meeting I addressed directly with President Putin the issue of Russian interference in our elections. I felt this was a message best delivered in person. I spent a great deal of time talking about it."

“President Putin was very strong and powerful in his denial today," Trump told reporters.

Putin said he told Trump during their meeting that “the Russian state never interfered and does not plan to interfere in internal American electoral process.”

Trump said he did not directly criticize Putin over that or any other issue on which the two countries have disagreement. Both leaders described their talks as having gone well.

"Our expectations are grounded in realism, but our hopes are grounded in America's desire for friendship, cooperation and peace," Trump said. "And I think I can speak on behalf of Russia when I say that, also." He added, "Our relationship has never been worse than it is now. However, that changed as of about four hours ago.”

Putin said the talks were business-like and called them a success. The meeting came three days after the special counsel charged 12 Russian intelligence officers with election interference. Russia is not likely to send the accused to the U.S. for trial, as the two countries do not have an agreement about surrendering suspects of crimes.

However, Putin suggested that Mueller send a request to Russia in connection with those charged. "Our law enforcement is perfectly able to do this questioning and send the appropriate materials to the United States," he said.

Aliqismet BADALOV,
“Khalq qazeti”