London (CNN) Julian Assange and his legal team are "seriously considering" a request from the US Senate Intelligence Committee for the WikiLeaks founder to testify on Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

A lawyer for Assange told CNN on Thursday that the request is being explored but only provided that his safety is assured.

"The inquiry has asked for him to appear in person at a mutually agreeable time and place. We are seriously considering the offer but must ensure Mr Assange's protection is guaranteed," Jennifer Robinson, a member of Assange's legal team, said.

On Wednesday, WikiLeaks revealed in a tweet that the committee probing Russian election interference had sent a letter to 47-year-old Assange calling on him to make himself "available for a closed interview with bipartisan Committee staff."

The tweet included a copy of the letter delivered to Assange.

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