Jeff Sessions calls Russia collusion accusation ‘detestable lie’

US Attorney-General Jeff Sessions on Tuesday rejected the accusation that he colluded with Russia to tilt the 2016 presidential election in Donald Trump's favor, condemning it as a “detestable and appalling lie.”

"That I participated in any collusion or that I was aware of any collusion with the Russian government to hurt this country, which I have served with honor for over 35 years, or to undermine the integrity of our democratic process, is an appalling and detestable lie," said Sessions when testifying before a Senate committee on Tuesday.

During the closely-watched two-hour hearing, Sessions said he was unaware of any collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. Sessions was an early Trump supporter and a member of the campaign.

"Let me state this clearly: I have never met with or had any conversations with any Russians or any foreign officials concerning any type of interference with any campaign or election in the United States. Further, I have no knowledge of any such conversations by anyone connected to the Trump campaign," he said.

Sessions recused himself from the Russia investigation and he was later discovered to have had contact with the Russian ambassador last year despite testifying to the contrary during his confirmation hearing.

(CGTN)