Trump offered national security advisor position to Vice Admiral Robert Harward

Following the sudden resignation of General Michael Flynn, US President Donald Trump's administration has offered the position of national security advisor to Vice Admiral Robert Harward, agencies report, as carried by Patria.

An American Marine with operational experience, Harward is a former deputy commander of the US Central Command.

Flynn resigned on Monday after it was revealed that he had discussed US sanctions against Russia with the Russian ambassador to the US before the new president took office.

The loss of a national security advisor immediately after taking office was a major blow to Trump, who had designated national security as the top priority of his administration.

Harward, originally from Rhode Island, attended school in Tehran before the Shah was overthrown in 1979. He was also involved in national security and counter-terrorism efforts during the administration of former President George W. Bush. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan and also possesses operational experience in the US Marine Corps' SEAL Team.

He currently holds an executive position with defense contractor Lockheed Martin, where he is responsible for operations in the United Arab Emirates.