New York: Trump offered National Security Advisor position to former military intelligence chief

The new President of the United States, Donald Trump, in the first hours of his new position, offered the position of National Security Advisor to the former head of military intelligence, General Michael Flynn, writes AP, reports Patria.

His move has drawn sharp criticism of current US foreign policy regarding the role of the White House.

The choice of Flynn is a clear first signal from the new president to his allies and opponents regarding the course he will take in his actions. It is still unknown whether Flynn, a retired army general, has accepted the offer.

Flynn, who will soon turn 58, sharply criticized the military and foreign policy of President Barack Obama even before he began advising Trump on national security during his presidential campaign. The position of National Security Advisor does not require Senate confirmation. If he takes the position, Flynn will work in the West Wing and will have easy access to the president.

Flynn built a reputation as an extremely capable and professional intelligence officer, known for his direct communication style. After retiring two years later, he made it clear that he resented the Obama administration's approach to global issues and the fight against ISIL.

Similar to Trump, Flynn also called on Washington to cooperate more closely with Moscow. However, it was precisely his sentiment towards Russia that worried some national security experts.  

Last year, Flynn visited Moscow where he joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and other officials in celebrating RT, a TV channel funded by the Russian government. He later explained that he was paid to participate in the event, but denied claims that he was aiding Russian propaganda efforts.

Given that he is new to the field of foreign policy, Trump's early moves are being watched under a microscope, both domestically and internationally, writes AP.