Donald Trump has fired a senior intelligence official who played a part in triggering an impeachment trial of the American leader last year.
In a letter to key lawmakers, Trump said he had lost confidence in Michael Atkinson, the inspector general of the US intelligence community, was removing him him in 30 days.
"It is vital that I have the fullest confidence in the appointees serving as inspectors general. This is no longer the case with regard to this inspector general," Trump explained.
Thomas Monheim, a career intelligence professional, will step in his position for the time being.
Atkinson had determined that an anonymous whistle-blower's complaint in August that alleged that Trump had sought political favours from Ukraine was credible.
Russia puts Ukraine's Zelenskiy on 'wanted' list
Death toll from Brazil rains climbs to 56
Hamas in a 'positive spirit' ahead of Cairo truce talks
NATO preparing for potential conflict with Russia, Moscow says
Students erect pro-Palestinian camp at Ireland's Trinity College
Russian suspected cybercrime kingpin pleads guilty in US: TASS
Indonesia plans to use corn, sugarcane, seaweed for making bioethanol
China launches mission to return samples from Moon's far side
