Outgoing CIA director John Brennan says Donald Trump does not understand Russia - and condemned his "talking and tweeting".

Mr Brennan also attacked as "outrageous" Mr Trump's comparison of the US intelligence community to Nazi Germany.

"Spontaneity is not something that protects national security interests," Mr Brennan said.

"And so therefore when he speaks or when he reacts, just make sure he understands that the implications and impact on the United States could be profound.

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"It's more than just about Mr Trump. It's about the United States of America," Mr Brennan said on Fox News Sunday.

Mr Trump has openly expressed admiration for Vladimir Putin.

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He has even hinted that he may lift sanctions imposed on Russia over alleged cyberattacks if Moscow helps fight jihadist groups.

And he dismissed as "fake news" claims that Russia holds a compromising dossier on him, which could be used for blackmail.

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In an extraordinary outburst he accused the intelligence agencies of behaving like "Nazi Germany" in bringing the unverified dossier to light.

The dossier was reportedly compiled by a retired British spy.

President Barack Obama's chief of staff says the president has sought a full assessment on any interference in the 2016 election.

:: Watch live coverage of the inauguration on Sky News from 3pm and Sky Atlantic from 4pm on 20 January. Adam Boulton will be in the US to present a special Sky News programme - Trump: America's President - every day at midnight from now until Friday.

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