A web of political intrigue

The key figures

Devin Nunes

Once a Trump transition team member, the Republican chairman of the House intelligence committee was the main driver behind the memo, written by Republicans.

Donald Trump

He had the power to block the memo’s release but approved it despite objections from the FBI and the department of justice. He called the revelations “a disgrace”.

Christopher Steele

The British former MI6 agent produced a dossier of claims about Mr Trump before the election that FBI agents quoted when getting a wiretap on a Trump aide.

Christopher Wray

FBI director lobbied hard to keep the memo secret because it painted a partial picture and could expose intelligence methods. FBI expressed “grave concerns”.