WASHINGTON — The trial of Paul Manafort was not about election conspiracy or presidential obstruction of justice. Michael D. Cohen pleaded guilty to crimes that had nothing to do with Russia’s campaign to sabotage the 2016 presidential race. Yet the deepening legal peril for both men could have significant implications for the current investigation by the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III. But neither Mr. Manafort nor Mr. Cohen are believed to be cooperating with the special counsel — situations that could change now that they face years in prison. The team for Mr. Cohen, the president’s former lawyer, at least, has signaled a willingness to provide information to the special counsel in exchange for some kind of leniency.

Source: New York Times August 22, 2018 09:02 UTC