US President Donald Trump has suffered a major legal setback after a federal appeals court upheld an order halting work on his planned White House ballroom.

The US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit ruled 2–1 against the Trump administration, agreeing that such a major overhaul of the White House requires explicit approval from Congress. The court said the decision over whether to construct a massive ballroom belongs to Congress rather than the executive branch.

The ruling puts Trump's estimated $400 million project on hold. The appeals court has paused its decision for two weeks, giving the Trump administration time to ask the US Supreme Court to intervene.

US Appeals Court Blocks Trump’s $400 Million White House Ballroom Project

Senate Republicans removed a $1 billion Secret Service funding request linked to Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project from an immigration bill, citing procedural rules and GOP opposition. The move adds fresh political tension in Washington as lawmakers race to finalize legislation

Senate Republicans pull $1 billion Secret Service funding for Trump's White House Ballroom project

Leavitt said she had not planned another briefing before her maternity leave but decided to address the media after Saturday’s events, adding that the president expressed gratitude to security personnel, including the agent hit in the vest, and had initially wanted the dinner to continue.

Third ‘assassination attempt’ against Trump in two years: White House blames ‘left wing’ hatred for gala dinner shooting

The White House ballroom ruling on Thursday has left Donald Trump fuming, who attacked the judge on his Truth Social account late evening. He called him "out of control Trump-hating" judge, adding once again that the ballroom is a must for national security.

Trump rants against judge on White House ballroom ruling - 'no future President can ever be safe'

US judge blocks Trump’s White House ballroom construction while allowing underground bunker work, as Trump blasts ruling as “mockery” of the court system

'Mockery to our court system': US judge extends Trump White House Ballroom ban but allows underground bunker work

A US judge halted Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom project. Trump is furious after the Judge asked for approval from Congress. 

'Construction has to stop': Trump ordered to halt his $400 million White House ballroom project

Ballroom construction is critical for security concerns: White House tells court

Who’s contributing to Trump's $250M White House ballroom, and why?

Last month, Trump announced the building of a massive ballroom as part of a major expansion of the White House. The $200 million project has been funded by Trump himself.

In pics | Trump gave Oval Office a golden makeover – Who covered the cost?

The ballroom will be used for grand state dinners, which are hosted when a foreign head of state visits Washington. These events were generally organised by erecting a huge tent on the White House grounds. 

White House unveils $200 million ballroom – How massive is the project? Will it replace East Wing?