President Trump has described CIA Director John Ratcliffe's surprise visit to Moscow this week as "semi-routine", seeking to temper concerns over the unannounced trip.
Reports of the visit surfaced today, although the Trump administration had not formally announced it. Flight tracking data of a US government jet was captured by various outlets, and the Kremlin later confirmed the meeting – while noting that Ratcliffe did not hold talks with Vladimir Putin, who was informed of the meeting. The purpose of the visit was not clear.
President dismisses speculation
During a live radio interview, Trump dismissed any speculation that the meeting was in regard to a possible escalation from Russia. "I hate to disappoint people," he said.
The comments came after commentator Glenn Beck said on his program: "Rumors are saying Putin is going to test Nato resolve all the way."
Ukraine war efforts
"He is not in there for any of the things that you said," Trump said. "Now something may come out of it. We're working very hard to get that war [in Ukraine] ended."
