US Russia Investigation: Mueller makes first statement on probe, doesn't clear Trump

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02:10

To the U.S. now, breaking his silence for the first time in two years, Robert Mueller spoke out publicly about his report on alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections. And as the case has officially come to an end, Mueller also announced his resignation as the special counsel. CGTN's Owen Fairclough reports.

Robert Mueller determined to have the last word during his first and only public appearance about an inquiry that plagued President Trump.

ROBERT MUELLER OUTGOING SPECIAL COUNSEL "It is important that office's written work speak for itself."

But for many, it didn't.

Mueller's 448-page report into allegations the Trump campaign colluded with Russia over the 2016 election and Trump himself obstructed justice had merely raised questions, particularly Mueller's ambiguous conclusion that his report did not exonerate Trump.

So this was an opportunity for Mueller to clarify that himself, and he chose to double down.

ROBERT MUELLER OUTGOING SPECIAL COUNSEL "If we had had confidence that the president clearly did not commit a crime we would have said so. We did not make a determination as to whether the president did commit a crime."

But Trump shot back on Twitter.

"Nothing changes from the Mueller Report. There was insufficient evidence and therefore, in our Country, a person is innocent."

While Mueller found no evidence of collusion, he was unequivocal about Russian attempts to influence the election.

ROBERT MUELLER OUTGOING SPECIAL COUNSEL "There were multiple systematic efforts to interfere in our election and that allegation deserves the attention of every American."

For opposition Democrats looking to Mueller as the man who could bring down Trump, there was disappointment.

OWEN FAIRCLOUGH WASHINGTON DC "Mueller is resigning as Special Counsel and insists that if he does testify before Congress, he won't discuss anything that isn't in his report. Owen Fairclough, CGTN, Washington."