FBI Raids Home of Former National Security Adviser John Bolton

Early Friday morning, FBI agents conducted a raid on the Bethesda, Maryland residence of John Bolton, who served as President Trump’s national security adviser. The investigation, reportedly connected to classified documents, was authorized by FBI Director Kash Patel.

Investigators also planned to search Bolton’s office later that day. At the time of the raid, Bolton’s wife, Gretchen Smith Bolton, was seen outside their home. He was not arrested and faces no current charges.

The probe focuses on potential mishandling or unauthorized release of sensitive information, a matter that has been under scrutiny for years. The investigation originated in 2020, coinciding with efforts by the Justice Department to examine Bolton’s actions, including a dispute over his book, “The Room Where It Happened,” which contained disclosures deemed classified. President Trump sought to block its publication, asserting Bolton breached a nondisclosure agreement.

Shortly after the raid began, Bolton posted a cryptic message on X criticizing President Trump’s approach to Russia’s war in Ukraine, suggesting ongoing geopolitical tensions. The tweet questioned Russia’s intentions toward Ukraine, emphasizing that President Zelensky would not concede territory.

Bolton’s spokesperson indicated he hasn’t been charged with any crimes. Critics allege that the investigation was politically motivated, especially given its origins and the prior shutdown of related inquiries by Biden’s Justice Department.

Meanwhile, Bolton’s recent social media posts include criticisms of U.S.-Russia relations, asserting that Russia’s goal remains to re-establish a Russian Empire by pressuring Ukraine. The investigation also comes after revelations that former FBI Director James Comey authorized leaks of classified information during the 2016 election cycle, according to a Trump ally.