In a press briefing on Friday, President Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that he had spoken with his son about the presence of Russian businessman Umar Kremlev at the wedding. Trump said the arrangement was "totally allowed" and that his son had told him he was repaying the money.
ProPublica earlier this month disclosed that Kremlev, who heads the International Boxing Association and has close ties to President Vladimir Putin, funneled a Dubai‑based shell company affiliated with the boxing federation to pay for the three‑day celebration on a private island, including a fireworks display. The report estimated the payments at several hundred thousand dollars.
Bettina Anderson, Trump Jr’s bride, confirmed Kremlev’s role in a signed Instagram post, describing him as a "dear friend" who "very generously hosted two incredible nights of celebrations for us after our wedding." She emphasized the ceremony was private and surrounded only by family.
Trump Jr’s spokesperson said Kremlev was a friend rather than a business partner, while the former president’s office has not yet confirmed a repayment schedule. The controversy arrives amid heightened scrutiny over Russian influence during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Congressional Republicans have called for a review of the financial ties between the Kremlev family and the Trump household, and a federal prosecutor has reportedly opened a preliminary inquiry into the transactions.
The next scheduled hearing on the matter will take place on September 28, when a special counsel is expected to present findings to the House Oversight Committee.