I have sincerely apologized to the President and the Vice President, and they have accepted my apology," read Flynn's letter, a copy of which was released by the White House. Earlier in the day White House spokesman Sean Spicer insisted Trump was not consulted about Flynn discussing sanctions, nor did he task Flynn to do so. A former head of defence intelligence, Flynn's encounters with Russian President Vladimir Putin had already drawn criticism. KEY PLAYERIn the hours before his resignation, some Trump aides suggested that Flynn had the full support of the president. He was an early supporter of Trump's improbable bid for the presidency and has encouraged tougher policies on Iran and a softer policy on Russia.

Source: Daily Nation February 14, 2017 05:15 UTC