WASHINGTON, July 12 -- US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, one of President Donald Trump's closest political allies and among the most recognisable conservative voices in Washington, has died aged 71 after what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness."

A statement posted on Graham's official X account said he died on Saturday evening, adding that his family "appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period", news aire AFP reported today.

Trump was among the first to pay tribute, describing the South Carolina senator as "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known."

The US president said Graham "was always working, and was a true American Patriot," adding: "Lindsey...