Former Special Counsel Robert Mueller testifies before a House Judiciary Committee hearing on the Office of Special Counsel's investigation into Russian Interference in the 2016 Presidential Election" on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., July 24, 2019. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former Special Counsel Robert Mueller began Wednesday’s highly anticipated congressional hearing by telling lawmakers he will be limited in what he can discuss about his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

“I am unable to address questions about the opening of the FBI’s Russia investigation, which occurred months before my appointment,” Mueller said in his opening statement before the House Judiciary Committee.

He also said he intends to respect a Justice Department request not to discuss matters that could be privileged or that could impede ongoing investigations.