Donald Trump's 'eyebrow-raising' letter to James Comey telling him he was fired – read it in full

The dismissal comes amid investigations into alleged ties between Mr Trump's campaign aides and Russia

Donald Trump shakes hands with FBI director James Comey on 22 January 2017 (Getty)

Donald Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, the person leading an investigation into alleged links between Russia and Mr Trump's campaign team. His letter to Mr Comey (below) has been described "eyebrow-raising".

Past presidents have normally accepted the resignation of senior government officials as a sign of respect for their years of public service and to keep administration in-fighting out of the public eye.

Mr Trump did not mince words in his letter that he was sacking Mr Comey.

While Mr Trump wrote that he "appreciate[s]" Mr Comey telling him he was not under investigation in three separate instances, the president followed the recommendation of the Department of Justice.

Read the full text below:

Dear Director Comey,

I have received the attached letters from the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General of the United States recommending your dismissal as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. I have accepted their recommendation and you are hereby terminated and removed from office, effective immediately.

While I greatly appreciate you informing me, on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation, I nevertheless concur with the judgement of the Department of Justice that you are not able to effectively lead the Bureau. It is essential that we find new leadership for the FBI that restores the public trust and confidence in its vital law enforcement mission.

I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours

Donald J Trump