Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Mar 22: Former FBI director Robert Mueller, who led the high-profile investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US election, has died at the age of 81, his former law firm confirmed on Saturday.

Mueller, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, headed the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and later served as special counsel probing alleged links between Russia and then US President Donald Trump’s campaign.

Law firm WilmerHale, where Mueller worked until his retirement in 2021, described him as an “extraordinary leader and public servant of the greatest integrity.”

Media reports did not specify the cause of death, though he was reported last year to have been suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

Mueller’s 22-month investigation resulted in indictments against 34 individuals, including Trump associates, Russian intelligence officials and companies. While the probe documented extensive Russian interference, it did not establish that members of Trump’s campaign conspired with Moscow.

The findings were detailed in a 448-page report submitted in 2019, which also examined possible obstruction of justice by Trump but stopped short of making a criminal determination, citing Justice Department policy regarding sitting presidents.

Appointed FBI director by former President George W. Bush in 2001, Mueller led the agency for 12 years, overseeing major reforms to strengthen counterterrorism efforts and inter-agency coordination. His tenure was later extended by President Barack Obama.

Known for his disciplined and understated style, Mueller earned respect across party lines, even as he faced sustained criticism from Trump and his allies during the Russia investigation.

Over a long career, he also served as a federal prosecutor, handling major cases including organised crime prosecutions and terrorism-related investigations.

Mueller is survived by his wife Ann and their two daughters.