Obama calls for seamless transition for US military to Trump

WASHINGTON (AP):

President Barack Obama is calling during his last meeting with US military leaders for a "seamless passing of the baton" to President-elect Donald Trump.

The commander in chief was meeting with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the combatant commanders. He said he was doing everything possible to ensure the next president "will benefit from the same kind of outstanding advice and service".

The president pointed to the fight against the Islamic State group in the Iraqi city of Mosul and in Syria as ongoing conflicts the next president will inherit. He said Afghanistan, too, was still active.

Obama offered praise and gratitude for US military leaders. He said he and the American people were "extraordinarily lucky to be served by such patriots".