What’s “bigger and better” than securing the integrity of US elections? Trump’s continuing downplaying of the Russian hacking is suspicious.
— David Corn (@DavidCornDC) December 29, 2016
As it proceeds from international practice, Russia has reasons to respond in kind. Although we have the right to retaliate, we will not resort to irresponsible ‘kitchen’ diplomacy but will plan our further steps to restore Russian-US relations based on the policies of the Trump Administration.
The diplomats who are returning to Russia will spend the New Year’s holidays with their families and friends. We will not create any problems for US diplomats. We will not expel anyone. We will not prevent their families and children from using their traditional leisure sites during the New Year’s holidays. Moreover, I invite all children of US diplomats accredited in Russia to the New Year and Christmas children’s parties in the Kremlin.
It is regrettable that the Obama Administration is ending its term in this manner. Nevertheless, I offer my New Year greetings to President Obama and his family.
My season’s greetings also to President-elect Donald Trump and the American people.
I wish all of you happiness and prosperity.
Experts have chimed in saying Putin’s statement is nothing more than “smoke and mirrors.”
Original post: 12/30/16
President Barack Obama has imposed sanctions on Russian officials and intelligence services in retaliation for Russia’s interference in the U.S. presidential election by hacking American political sites and email accounts.
The State Department also has kicked out 35 Russian diplomats from its embassy in Washington and consulate in San Francisco, giving them and their families 72 hours to leave the U.S. The diplomats were declared persona non grata for acting in a “manner inconsistent with their diplomatic status.”
Obama said Russians will no longer have access to two Russian government-owned compounds in the United States, in Maryland and in New York.
In a statement, President Obama said:
“All Americans should be alarmed by Russia’s actions.”
Russian officials have denied the Obama administration’s accusation that the Russian government was trying to influence the U.S. presidential election.
U.S. intelligence agencies concluded that Russia’s goal was to help Donald Trump win – an assessment Trump has dismissed as ridiculous.
Trump going to the White House is America caving to Russian interests. https://t.co/yvQPN2yYxd #trump #trumpleaks #russianhacking #resist
— Dr. DaShanne Stokes (@DaShanneStokes) December 30, 2016
Meantime, a joint CIA/FBI report released Thursday details the hacking:
