‘PUTIN A BIGGER THREAT THAN I.S.’
The Russians are trying to destroy democracy, says US senator
vices Committee, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on Monday.
“I think IS can do terrible things... but it is the Russians who are trying, who tried to destroy the very fundamental of democracy and that is to change the outcome of an American election.
“I have seen no evidence they succeeded, but they tried and they are still trying. They just tried to affect the outcome of the French election.
“So, I view Vladimir Putin, who has dismembered the Ukraine, a sovereign nation, who is putting pressure on the Baltics, I view the Russians as the far greatest challenge that we have.”
McCain’s comments come with the Trump team embroiled in controversy over its relationship with Moscow, which US intelli- gence agencies say tried to sway last November’s election in the property tycoon’s favour.
Over the weekend, the furore pierced the innermost circle of the White House with reports that Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner sought a secret communications link to Russia — an allegation the president called “fabricated”.
When put to him by the ABC that some people feel nervous about international security with Trump as president, McCain said he understood why.
“I am nervous from time to time. I believe that the president has great confidence in the national security team. I believe most of the time that he accepts their advice and counsel.
“Can I tell you that he does (that) all the time? No. Does it bother me? Yes.”