Donald Trump has backtracked on his claim that he "didn't see any reason" why Russia would be involved in US election meddling.

In a startling U-turn, Mr Trump said he mis-spoke at a news conference with Vladimir Putin and meant to say he didn't see any reason why Russian wouldn't be responsible for interfering in the 2016 vote.

The US president said "there's a need for some clarification", adding that what he meant "should have been obvious - I thought it would be obvious but would like to clarify in case it wasn't".

He said: "In a key sentence in my remarks I said the word 'would' instead of 'wouldn't'."

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Mr Trump was speaking after returning from a summit in Helsinki to widespread anger over his performance during a news conference with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.


He added that he had "full faith and support" for US intelligence agencies and "accepts" their conclusion that there was Russian interference.

However, he added: "It could be other people also. A lot of people out there. There was no collusion at all".

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"I have felt very strongly that while Russia's actions had no impact at all on the outcome of the election, let me be totally clear in saying that - and I've said this many times - I accept our intelligence community's conclusion that Russia's meddling in the 2016 election took place," he said.

Mr Trump failed to condemn Russia's alleged interference on Monday, instead saying: "I have great confidence in my intelligence people but I will tell you that President Putin was extremely strong and powerful in his denial today."

Almost as soon as the words were spoken, journalists, political commentators and politicians expressed bemusement and anger, with former CIA director John Brennan describing the remarks as "treasonous".

Image: Donald Trump was criticised for what he said while stood with Vladimir Putin

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Mr Trump is meeting with members of Congress, with many of them having joined the chorus of condemnation.

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said earlier: "Let's be very clear - Russia meddled in our election".

Mr Ryan added that Congress would make sure Russia was not able to "get away with (election meddling) again".

Mr Trump's pliable manner at Monday's summit with Russia had been in stark contrast to the combativeness he had displayed towards NATO allies last week, and Mr Ryan felt the need to issue reassurance that the US "stands by NATO allies and all countries facing Russian aggression".

Reacting to Mr Trump's turnaround, senate minority leader Chuck Schumer said: "24 hours is too late and in the wrong place".