Michael Flynn

Former National Security Advisor

Lied to the FBI about his contacts with the Russian ambassador during the transition. Pleaded guilty to making false statements, cooperated with the Mueller investigation, then had his case dismissed and was pardoned by Trump.

1 receipt on file · Last reviewed 2026-08-03

RECEIPT_01 · 2016-12 — 2017-01 Guilty plea

The claim

Denied discussing U.S. sanctions on Russia with the Russian ambassador during the transition and denied asking Russia not to retaliate against Obama-era sanctions.

Made in: Interview with the FBI and public statements

The proof

Flynn pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI about his contacts with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak. He cooperated with the Mueller investigation, then had his case dismissed on procedural grounds and was pardoned by Trump.

The record

United States v. Flynn — U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia · No. 1:17-cr-00232-RJL

Outcome: Pleaded guilty to making false statements (December 1, 2017); case dismissed (November 2020); pardoned by Trump (November 2020)

The person admitted the facts under oath in open court, before a judge, to end a criminal case. The strongest record possible: self-incrimination.

Flynn cooperated with the Mueller investigation before seeking to withdraw his plea. The case was dismissed on procedural grounds, and he was pardoned. The guilty plea is a legal record.

Michael Flynn — prosecution and pardon ↗

What this file is

This dossier collects contradictions established in legal records. It is not a verdict on everything Michael Flynn has ever said, and it does not assert intent. Where outcomes have changed on appeal or review, the receipt says so.