John Bolton, the former US National Security Advisor, is expected to plead guilty to charges relating to the mishandling of classified documents, according to sources close to the case. The development has prompted a review of intelligence-sharing protocols by MI5, the British domestic security service.
Bolton, who served under President Donald Trump from 2018 to 2019, has been under investigation by the US Department of Justice for allegedly retaining sensitive materials after leaving office. The charges are believed to relate to his memoirs, which included details of classified briefings and diplomatic exchanges.
The expected guilty plea marks a significant reversal for Bolton, who has previously denied any wrongdoing. Legal experts suggest that a plea deal may involve a reduced sentence in exchange for cooperation with ongoing inquiries into the handling of classified information within the Trump administration.
In London, MI5 has announced a review of its intelligence-sharing protocols with US officials. The review, described as a routine measure, is intended to assess the security of information provided to foreign counterparts. A spokesperson for MI5 confirmed that the review would not affect current operations but would focus on safeguards for sensitive materials.
The case has reignited debates about the accountability of senior officials with access to national secrets. Both the US and UK governments have stressed the importance of maintaining trust in their intelligence partnerships, which are among the closest in the world.
Bolton is expected to appear in federal court in Washington DC within the next fortnight to enter his plea. Sentencing guidelines for the charges carry a maximum term of ten years, though a plea agreement may recommend a lesser sentence.
