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John Dowd quits: Donald Trump's lead lawyer in Russia probe steps down after US President 'ignores his advice'

Donald Trump's lead lawyer in the Russia probe John Dowd has quit: AFP/Getty Images
Donald Trump's lead lawyer in the Russia probe John Dowd has quit: AFP/Getty Images

Donald Trump's lead lawyer in the Russia investigation has quit following reports he was frustrated that the president was not following his advice.

John Dowd confirmed his decision in an email, saying he "loves the president" and wishes him well.

The New York Times reported that Mr Trump was increasingly ignoring the lawyer's advice. Another of Mr Trump's lawyer, Jay Sekulow, also confirmed Mr Dowd's departure.

Mr Sekulow said in a statement he was "a friend and has been a valuable member of our legal team."

The New York Times claims Mr Trump has ignored his lawyer's advice (Getty)
The New York Times claims Mr Trump has ignored his lawyer's advice (Getty)

"We will continue our ongoing representation of the president and our cooperation with the Office of Special Counsel."

On Saturday, Mr Dowd called for an end to the investigation, which he said was manufactured by former FBI director James Comey.

Mr Dowd has been Trump's lead outside lawyer for the Russia probe since last summer, when longtime Trump personal lawyer Marc Kasowitz stepped down.

Earlier this week, Trump hired Washington lawyer Joseph DiGenova, who accuses the FBI and U.S. Justice Department of trying to frame Trump with what he says are false charges of colluding with Russia during the 2016 election campaign.

Mr DiGenova's hiring was viewed as possibly signalling an aggressive drive to discredit Mueller.

Washington lawyer Ty Cobb, who has been in the White House since last summer and has also been working on the probe, did not immediately respond to requests to comment on developments in the legal team.

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