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US Interior Secretary Denies 'False' Accusations of Misconduct

© AP Photo / Richard DrewRep. Ryan Zinke, right, R-Mont., arrives in Trump Tower, in New York
Rep. Ryan Zinke, right, R-Mont., arrives in Trump Tower, in New York - Sputnik International
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MOSCOW (Sputnik) – US Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke denied accusations of using misconduct and using his position for own benefit as false, following the announcement of his resignation.

An investigation was reportedly launched, among others, into the real estate deal struck between a foundation established by Zinke and a group supported by the chairman of the Halliburton oil service company, which could have constituted a conflict of interest. Zinke’s alleged expensive flights on private aircraft were also being probed.

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke arriving for his first day of work at the Interior Department in Washington, Thursday, March 2, 2017, aboard Tonto, an 17-year-old Irish sport horse - Sputnik International
Trump Announces Interior Secretary Zinke to Leave Office at End of the Year

"After 30 years of public service, I cannot justify spending thousands of dollars defending myself and my family against false allegations. It is better for the President [Donald Trump] and Interior to focus on accomplishments rather than fictitious allegations," Zinke said in a Saturday statement.

READ MORE: US Interior Secretary: Naval Blockade is an Option for Dealing with Russia

Zinke added that he was proud of all "the good work" he did together with US President Donald Trump.

On Saturday, Trump announced that Zinke would step down at the end of this year after two years in office.

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