President Trump told reporters on Friday that his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., paid back a Russian oligarch. The man in question, Umar Kremlev, covered hundreds of thousands of dollars for the younger Trump’s wedding festivities. This happened earlier this year on a private island in the Bahamas, according to ABC News. The President said he heard the debt was cleared up before the story broke.
Trump stated that he heard the debt was cleared up. He added that his son confirmed the repayment directly to him when the story first surfaced. The President noted this all happened “a while ago” and insisted the transaction is settled.
The wedding expenses were significant. ProPublica reported that Kremlev paid for the main event on a private island. The report also stated he rented a second private island just for the reception and a fireworks show.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has a close ally in Kremlev, who serves as the president of the International Boxing Association. According to ABC News, critics and lawmakers have voiced concern regarding the gift.
When pressed about Kremlev’s ties to the Kremlin, Trump suggested his son “didn’t do a background check.” He compared the gift to wedding parties he has hosted himself at Mar-a-Lago. “It’s totally allowed, and a lot of people have parties, but it’s totally allowed,” Trump said, per the New York Post. He emphasized that giving such parties is a common practice for friends.
Despite the President’s firm statements, no public records exist to prove the money changed hands. The Post received confirmation from a source familiar with the matter that Kremlev was made whole, though no specific amount was provided.
Evidence that Trump Jr. was involved has been requested from The Trump Organization and the White House by ABC News. The lack of paper trail leaves the public with only the President’s word.
Bettina Anderson, Trump Jr.’s wife, called the event “an extraordinary gift from a friend.” She said they remain “incredibly grateful” for the two nights of celebrations after their wedding. Kremlev’s press office told ProPublica that he and Trump Jr. share a friendly relationship and met a couple of years ago. The President maintains that his son handled the situation correctly and paid the debt in full.
