The briefing was penned by Trump’s national security advisers. During the congratulatory phone call, Russian meddling in US elections was not discussed.

Putin has long maintained political control in Russia, disallowing any real competition, exercising ultimately authority over the media, and presiding over widespread corruption in elections. He has been President or prime minister since 2000.

PBS News Hour – Briefing papers warned Trump: ‘DO NOT CONGRATULATE’ Putin
The Washington Post – The ‘DO NOT CONGRATULATE’ leak shows the White House is panicking
Newsweek – RUSSIA: FIVE REASONS WHY PUTIN’S ELECTION IS A SHAM