New Delhi, July 23 -- A spokesperson for former President Barack Obama, responding sharply to allegations from President Donald Trump, that had accused Obama and top officials from his administration of orchestrating a treasonous plot to falsely link him to Russia following his 2016 election win, denounced the claims as "ridiculous".

"These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction," Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said.

"Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one."

"Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the w...