WASHINGTON — US President Donald J. Trump’s lawyers have urged him to refuse to sit down with Special Counsel Robert Mueller as part of the probe into his campaign’s ties with Russia, The New York Times reported Monday. However, Mr. Trump himself has repeatedly stated that he would like to speak with Mr. Mueller about the ongoing investigation, which is examining his campaign’s possible collusion with Russia over election interference, and possible obstruction of justice. “I’m looking forward to it, actually,” Mr. Trump told reporters at the White House last month, though adding: “subject to my lawyers and all of that.” The president said he would even testify under oath. While Mr. Mueller’s questioning would not be under oath, it is a crime to lie to federal investigators. The New York Times cited four people briefed on the matter as saying the president’s lawyers are concerned that he could be charged with lying to investigators, as he has previously made false statements and contradicted himself. A refusal could lead Mr. Mueller to issue a subpoena for the president to testify before a grand jury, with a court fight that would be decided by the US Supreme Court. — AFP
