National security adviser Michael Flynn reportedly talked sanctions with Russia before Trump took office

National security adviser Michael T. Flynn is making waves for discussions he had with Russia in the weeks prior to Donald Trump's inauguration.

U.S. officials, both current and former, have indicated that conversations with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak included talk of the sanctions Obama instituted against Russia for its alleged interference in the 2016 election, notes the New York Times.

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All nine sources that spoke with the Washington Post indicated, "Flynn's references to the election-related sanctions were explicit."

The Post also notes, "Two of those officials went further, saying that Flynn urged Russia not to overreact to the penalties being imposed by President Barack Obama, making clear that the two sides would be in position to review the matter after Trump was sworn in as president."

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The exchanges reported by the officials, who spoke on a condition of anonymity, suggest activity that's potentially inappropriate and illegal.

They are also in conflict with statements made by a number of White House officials, including Vice President Mike Pence, who gave assurances that the discussions between Flynn and Kislyak did not include sensitive government matters.