Poll probe heats up

Arrest imminent over Russian involvement in Trump victory

US special counsel Robert Mueller has charged at least one person in the sprawling probe over Russian interference in last year’s presidential vote, marking the start of a new judicial phase.

Details of the first charges as well as the target remain unclear at this stage, but CNN confirmed with several sources briefed on the matter that a federal grand jury had approved them – and arrests could take place as early as today.

At least one person is in the legal crosshairs, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Both Mr Mueller’s office and the US Department of Justice have declined to comment on the reports.

Mr Mueller, a former FBI director, was tapped in May to head the Russia probe shortly after Mr Trump’s shock sacking of then-FBI director James Comey. The sweeping investigation encompasses all Russian attempts to sway the 2016 US presidential election, including possible collusion with members of Donald Trump’s campaign.

The president has denied any collusion with Moscow.

Team Mueller is also scrutinising whether Mr Trump – who admitted to firing Mr Comey over the Russian affair – obstructed justice.

In bombshell testimony before Congress the ex-FBI chief said the president pressured him for loyalty and urged him to drop a probe into former national security adviser Michael Flynn.

Mr Trump’s former campaign chairman Paul Manafort is among those of interest to investigators, particularly over financial links to Russia he developed as a lobbyist and consultant.

Mr Flynn is also under the magnifying glass for alleged lobbying activities for Turkey.

He was forced out just 22 days into the new administration, and is also under investigation for misreporting contacts with Russian officials during the presidential race.