Trump is "for whatever reason, intimidated by [Putin], afraid of what he could do or what might come out as a result of these investigations," former CIA director John Brennan said in response to Trump's controversial meeting with the Russian President.
Brennan and former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper — along with former FBI director James Comey — were among the intelligence leaders that Trump labeled as "political hacks" for their conclusion that Russia interfered in the 2016 election.
More from the interview:
- On the message Trump is sending to Putin: "I think he's giving Putin a pass. I think it demonstrates to Mr. Putin that Donald Trump can be played by foreign leaders who are going to appeal to his ego and to try to play upon his insecurities, which is very, very worrisome from a national security standpoint," Brennan said.
- Do you think Trump "can be played'? "I do ... Both the Chinese and the Russians can play him," Clapper added.