In U.S., a federal judge has dismissed the election interference and classified documents cases against President-elect Donald Trump after Special Counsel Jack Smith requested the charges be dropped. Smith cited a Justice Department policy barring the prosecution of sitting presidents, emphasizing that the decision was procedural and not based on the merits of the case.

Judge Tanya Chutkan ruled the dismissal appropriate and not harmful to the public interest, noting that presidential immunity is temporary and expires upon leaving office. Meanwhile Trump’s legal team did not oppose the motion.

The dismissal follows a Supreme Court ruling granting Trump partial immunity from criminal prosecution related to his presidential actions. Trump, who pleaded not guilty in both cases, hailed the decision as a major victory for the rule of law. Trump is poised to take the oath of office and the inauguration to take place on January 20 at the US Capital.