DONALD TRUMP has officially pardoned two individuals who were convicted of lying to the FBI during an inquiry into the president's campaign.
George Papadopoulos, an ex-campaign aide, and attorney Alex van der Zwaan were among 15 people who received the presidential clemency.
Trump also pardoned four security guards involved in a 2007 massacre in Iraq and two ex-congressmen, and is expected to issue more before he leaves office in January.
It's common for outgoing presidents to use their right to issue pardons shortly before they leave office, to prevent individuals from being convicted.
Former Trump Campaign aide George Papadopoulos has been pardonedMr Papadopoulos was arrested during the FBI's investigation into Russia's involvement in Trump's election victory in 2016.
He pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about the timing of meetings with alleged go-betweens for Russia during the run-up to the election.
He said he met with two individuals with Russian connections before ever working with Mr Trump's campaign, when in fact he met them after joining.
He also reportedly discussed with them "dirt" which could hurt Hillary Clinton, as well as a possible trip by Trump during the campaign to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Thank you, Mr. President!!! This means the world to me and my family!
— George Papadopoulos (@GeorgePapa19) December 23, 2020
Papadopoulos, who spent less than two weeks in jail, took to Twitter to thank Trump, writing: "Thank you Mr President, this means the world to me and my family".
Mr van der Zwaan also admitted making false statements during the investigation.
The Dutch lawyer was initially sentenced to 30 days in jail in 2018 after pleading guilty to lying to Mueller investigators.
Attorney Alex van der Zwaan (L) has also been pardoned by President TrumpSee More: Donald Trump, Presidential Pardon
