&nbsp;United States President Donald Trump has admitted that the various construction projects he has undertaken in Washington, DC, will one day bear his name to secure his presidential legacy. “Nobody will do it once I’m gone. When I leave here, nobody will,” Trump said when asked about the “triumphal arch” in an interview by New York Magazine.&nbsp;The “triumphal arch” is only one of many projects Trump has begun construction of in Washington, DC. The White House ballroom is another of the president's marquee construction projects that is mired in controversy.&nbsp;Despite the debate surrounding his construction work and his intent to give them his name, Trump said “the people should be thankful” for the ballroom.&nbsp;“A lot of people said, ‘Don’t do this interview.’ But I’m proud of the work I’m doing,” Trump added.Trump is already entangled in several lawsuits for renaming the Kennedy Center and its campus after him, overhauling the capital’s popular golf course and renovating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.&nbsp;<h2>What all are being named after Trump</h2>&nbsp;That's not all, “Trump Accounts,” “TrumpRx,” and “Trump Gold Card” are names given to his policy achievements that offers a fast-track to legal residency in the U.S. for the price of $1 million.While the Department of State has created a commemorative “Patriot Passport” featuring an image of Trump.&nbsp;The US military too is going to bear Trump's name as it is also developing a line of “Trump-class” battleships as well as the USS Donald J. Trump aircraft carrier.&nbsp;But closes to his heart and the most-expensive project yet seems to be gold-filled, bullet-proof White House ballroom that was once the East Wing.&nbsp;According to the recently revealed designs, the ballroom will have an ornate, gold-stuffed interior with golden marble floors and a chandelier. The exteriors will have a gold finishing, a plan that was not previously approved by federal agencies this year.&nbsp;

Despite the controversy surrounding his construction work and intent to give them his name, Trump said “the people should be thankful” for the ballroom.

United States President Donald Trump has admitted that the various construction projects he has undertaken in Washington, DC, will one day bear his name to secure his presidential legacy. “Nobody will do it once I’m gone. When I leave here, nobody will,” Trump said when asked about the “triumphal arch” in an interview by New York Magazine. The “triumphal arch” is only one of many projects Trump has begun construction of in Washington, DC. The White House ballroom is another of the president's marquee construction projects that is mired in controversy. Despite the debate surrounding his construction work and his intent to give them his name, Trump said “the people should be thankful” for the ballroom. “A lot of people said, ‘Don’t do this interview.’ But I’m proud of the work I’m doing,” Trump added. Trump is already entangled in several lawsuits for renaming the Kennedy Center and its campus after him, overhauling the capital’s popular golf course and renovating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. What all are being named after Trump That's not all, “Trump Accounts,” “TrumpRx,” and “Trump Gold Card” are names given to his policy achievements that offers a fast-track to legal residency in the U.S. for the price of $1 million. While the Department of State has created a commemorative “Patriot Passport” featuring an image of Trump. The US military too is going to bear Trump's name as it is also developing a line of “Trump-class” battleships as well as the USS Donald J. Trump aircraft carrier. But closes to his heart and the most-expensive project yet seems to be gold-filled, bullet-proof White House ballroom that was once the East Wing. According to the recently revealed designs, the ballroom will have an ornate, gold-stuffed interior with golden marble floors and a chandelier. The exteriors will have a gold finishing, a plan that was not previously approved by federal agencies this year.

Despite the controversy surrounding his construction work and intent to give them his name, Trump said “the people should be thankful” for the ballroom.

'Nobody will do it once I’m gone': Trump admits to putting his name on everything

Welcome to WION. Here are the top global and India headlines making news.

U.S. President Donald Trump shares images of the proposed White House ballroom following a Supreme Court-related development. Germany’s foreign minister sharply criticizes Vladimir Putin over the war in Ukraine and pledges further support for Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Israel pushes back against U.S. criticism of its strikes on Syrian military sites, while Iran announces further upgrades to its ballistic and cruise missile programs.

In India, Rahul Gandhi’s youth event gets underway in Pune, with the Congress leader engaging with students and discussing issues facing young Indians.

Elsewhere, the IMF stalls Bangladesh funding amid concerns over delayed reforms, firefighters continue battling wildfires in Spain’s Valencia region, and a Chinese humanoid robot reportedly posts an impressive 100-metre trial time.

Watch the full bulletin for the latest world news, India news, geopolitics, Ukraine war, Iran, Israel, Bangladesh, Trump and technology updates.


Trump’s White House Ballroom | Rahul Gandhi’s Pune Youth Event |  Germany Slams Putin 

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

Donald Trump suffered a political setback on Wednesday (May 20) after Senate Republicans moved to remove a $1 billion Secret Service funding request linked to his White House ballroom project from a broader immigration enforcement bill. “We were told that the ballroom money is out,” said Sen. John Kennedy, adding he’d “like to read the text.” The decision followed a ruling by Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, who determined that the provision did not comply with budget reconciliation rules because it extended beyond the jurisdiction of the Judiciary Committee.&nbsp;The funding removal was also influenced by growing Republican resistance in the Senate, where several lawmakers raised concerns about including financing tied to the White House ballroom project in an immigration-focused bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told Republicans during a closed-door lunch that both procedural issues and a lack of sufficient votes were barriers to keeping the funding provision, according to sources familiar with the meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-s-spacex-files-for-biggest-ever-ipo-in-history-under-ticker-spcx-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-about-it-1779313005490">Elon Musk's SpaceX files for biggest-ever IPO in history under ticker SPCX. Here's all you need to know about it</a>&nbsp;Kennedy and other GOP senators indicated the entire Secret Service funding section would likely be dropped. Thune later said discussions were ongoing and no final legislative text had been agreed upon. The draft bill had specifically referenced the East Wing Modernization Project, allowing part of the $1 billion in Secret Service funding to be used for “above-ground and below-ground security features” connected to the ballroom initiative. The White House had pushed for the inclusion, viewing it as implicit congressional backing for the broader project, which is currently facing legal challenges after a federal judge ruled it had not been properly authorized.Earlier drafts of legislative text were reportedly provided to senators by the administration, according to Thune.&nbsp;Behind the scenes, Republicans are reportedly bracing for a strong reaction from Trump, who had already called for MacDonough’s removal in a post on Truth Social.Officials said only about $220 million of the proposed funding was expected to directly support ballroom-related security upgrades and White House “hardening,” but questions remained among senators. With deadlines approaching, Republicans are now rushing to finalise immigration legislation for Trump’s approval this week.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-us-troop-deployment-delayed-not-cancelled-1779298287303/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-us-troop-deployment-delayed-not-cancelled-1779298287303/embed</a>&nbsp;However, the political tensions extend beyond the funding dispute. Democrats are preparing amendments targeting a Justice Department “anti-weaponization” fund created through a settlement involving Trump, which could be used for political ally compensation. Some Republicans believe those amendments could gain bipartisan support, further complicating the bill’s passage.

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

Donald Trump suffered a political setback on Wednesday (May 20) after Senate Republicans moved to remove a $1 billion Secret Service funding request linked to his White House ballroom project from a broader immigration enforcement bill. “We were told that the ballroom money is out,” said Sen. John Kennedy, adding he’d “like to read the text.” The decision followed a ruling by Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, who determined that the provision did not comply with budget reconciliation rules because it extended beyond the jurisdiction of the Judiciary Committee. The funding removal was also influenced by growing Republican resistance in the Senate, where several lawmakers raised concerns about including financing tied to the White House ballroom project in an immigration-focused bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told Republicans during a closed-door lunch that both procedural issues and a lack of sufficient votes were barriers to keeping the funding provision, according to sources familiar with the meeting. Also Read: Elon Musk's SpaceX files for biggest-ever IPO in history under ticker SPCX. Here's all you need to know about it Kennedy and other GOP senators indicated the entire Secret Service funding section would likely be dropped. Thune later said discussions were ongoing and no final legislative text had been agreed upon. The draft bill had specifically referenced the East Wing Modernization Project, allowing part of the $1 billion in Secret Service funding to be used for “above-ground and below-ground security features” connected to the ballroom initiative. The White House had pushed for the inclusion, viewing it as implicit congressional backing for the broader project, which is currently facing legal challenges after a federal judge ruled it had not been properly authorized. Earlier drafts of legislative text were reportedly provided to senators by the administration, according to Thune. Behind the scenes, Republicans are reportedly bracing for a strong reaction from Trump, who had already called for MacDonough’s removal in a post on Truth Social. Officials said only about $220 million of the proposed funding was expected to directly support ballroom-related security upgrades and White House “hardening,” but questions remained among senators. With deadlines approaching, Republicans are now rushing to finalise immigration legislation for Trump’s approval this week. https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-us-troop-deployment-delayed-not-cancelled-1779298287303/embed However, the political tensions extend beyond the funding dispute. Democrats are preparing amendments targeting a Justice Department “anti-weaponization” fund created through a settlement involving Trump, which could be used for political ally compensation. Some Republicans believe those amendments could gain bipartisan support, further complicating the bill’s passage.

Senate Republicans drop $1 billion Secret Service funding tied to Donald Trump’s ballroom project amid legal, procedural, and political backlash

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

The White House on Monday (April 27) said the US President has faced a third major assassination attempt in two years and blamed a “left-wing cult of hatred” for the shooting at a gala correspondents' dinner in Washington attended by President Donald Trump, describing the night as being hijacked by “a crazy anti-Trump individual.”&nbsp;"How is whatever the assassin wrote in his manifesto any different to what is written in hatred for President Trump on social media?," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said.&nbsp;Speaking in the briefing room, Leavitt raised concerns over rising political violence in the US, blaming rhetoric from President Trump’s detractors and describing the shooting as a result of “systemic” criticism of the president over more than a decade by Democrats and sections of the media.&nbsp;“The left-wing cult of hatred against the president and all of those who support him and work for him has gotten multiple people hurt and killed, and it almost did so again this weekend,” she told a briefing.&nbsp;"Those who constantly, falsely label and slander the president as a fascist, as a threat to democracy, and compare him to Hitler to score political points, are fueling this kind of violence," she added.&nbsp;She also confirmed that President Trump “would attend the rescheduled dinner,” stating that the “new ballroom is critical for national security,” a project closely associated with the president, and emphasising that it is “critical we get done as quickly as possible.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-do-everything-in-the-interest-of-iran-says-putin-during-his-meeting-with-araghchi-1777301481318">'Will do everything in the interest of Iran', says Putin during his meeting with Araghchi</a>&nbsp;Leavitt also backed First Lady Melania Trump’s criticism of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, questioning how such remarks could be made about a US president. She referred to Melania Trump’s social media post in which the First Lady had called for action against Kimmel over an “expectant widow” joke, describing his comments as “hateful and violent rhetoric intended to divide our country.”&nbsp;Melania had referred to a remark made during a mock White House Correspondents' Dinner monologue on Kimmel’s show, where he said, “Our First Lady, Melania, is here. Look at Melania, so beautiful. Mrs Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow.”&nbsp;Taking the shooting incident as a context to raise concerns over DHS funding, Leavitt said the department has remained unfunded for more than 70 days. She said the incident highlights “how important it is for Congress to pass funding for the Department of Homeland Security,” calling it “a national emergency” and urging lawmakers to “put their country over party and get the Department of Homeland Security funded.”&nbsp;&nbsp;She added that “defunding of DHS should be a national scandal” and insisted that “Democrats need to fund Homeland Security, period.”&nbsp;The White House said President Donald Trump continues to trust the Secret Service and confirmed that meetings will be held with top DHS leaders and White House officials to ensure the president’s safety.&nbsp;The funding standoff began after immigration officers shot and killed two US citizens in January, prompting Senate Democrats to withhold support for DHS funding while pushing for stricter oversight of immigration enforcement.&nbsp;

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.

The White House on Monday (April 27) said the US President has faced a third major assassination attempt in two years and blamed a “left-wing cult of hatred” for the shooting at a gala correspondents' dinner in Washington attended by President Donald Trump, describing the night as being hijacked by “a crazy anti-Trump individual.” "How is whatever the assassin wrote in his manifesto any different to what is written in hatred for President Trump on social media?," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. Speaking in the briefing room, Leavitt raised concerns over rising political violence in the US, blaming rhetoric from President Trump’s detractors and describing the shooting as a result of “systemic” criticism of the president over more than a decade by Democrats and sections of the media. “The left-wing cult of hatred against the president and all of those who support him and work for him has gotten multiple people hurt and killed, and it almost did so again this weekend,” she told a briefing. "Those who constantly, falsely label and slander the president as a fascist, as a threat to democracy, and compare him to Hitler to score political points, are fueling this kind of violence," she added. She also confirmed that President Trump “would attend the rescheduled dinner,” stating that the “new ballroom is critical for national security,” a project closely associated with the president, and emphasising that it is “critical we get done as quickly as possible.” Also Read: 'Will do everything in the interest of Iran', says Putin during his meeting with Araghchi Leavitt also backed First Lady Melania Trump’s criticism of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, questioning how such remarks could be made about a US president. She referred to Melania Trump’s social media post in which the First Lady had called for action against Kimmel over an “expectant widow” joke, describing his comments as “hateful and violent rhetoric intended to divide our country.” Melania had referred to a remark made during a mock White House Correspondents' Dinner monologue on Kimmel’s show, where he said, “Our First Lady, Melania, is here. Look at Melania, so beautiful. Mrs Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow.” Taking the shooting incident as a context to raise concerns over DHS funding, Leavitt said the department has remained unfunded for more than 70 days. She said the incident highlights “how important it is for Congress to pass funding for the Department of Homeland Security,” calling it “a national emergency” and urging lawmakers to “put their country over party and get the Department of Homeland Security funded.” She added that “defunding of DHS should be a national scandal” and insisted that “Democrats need to fund Homeland Security, period.” The White House said President Donald Trump continues to trust the Secret Service and confirmed that meetings will be held with top DHS leaders and White House officials to ensure the president’s safety. The funding standoff began after immigration officers shot and killed two US citizens in January, prompting Senate Democrats to withhold support for DHS funding while pushing for stricter oversight of immigration enforcement.

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.

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'

A US federal judge on Thursday (April 16) extended an order blocking construction of President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom, while allowing work to continue on a planned underground bunker facility. Trump strongly criticized the ruling, calling District Judge Richard Leon “highly political” and “out of control” on his Truth Social platform. “This is a mockery to our Court System!” Trump said. “The Ballroom is deeply important to our National Security, and no Judge can be allowed to stop this Historic and Militarily Imperative Project.”&nbsp;Judge Leon had previously halted Trump’s $400 million ballroom project, ruling that congressional approval is required. The project has already included the demolition of part of the historic East Wing of the White House. In Thursday’s revised order, Leon extended the ban on any above-ground construction of the ballroom on the East Wing site, which once housed the offices of the First Lady. However, he permitted limited underground work to continue.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-erica-schwartz-trump-s-pick-for-new-cdc-director-amid-leadership-turmoil-1776379730334">Who is Erica Schwartz? Trump's pick for new CDC Director amid leadership turmoil</a>

“Below-ground construction may proceed, including the construction of any 'top-secret excavations, bunkers, bomb shelters, protective partitioning, military installations, and hospital and medical facilities,'” the judge said. He added that work can continue as long as it does not pre-determine the final design above ground. “National security is not a blank check to proceed with otherwise unlawful activity,” he said. The judge, appointed by former President George W. Bush, delayed enforcement of the order for one week to allow time for appeal.&nbsp;In his earlier ruling, Leon stressed that the president is a “steward” of the White House. “He is not, however, the owner!” he said. Trump has repeatedly promoted the ballroom as a key feature of his second term, saying it is necessary for hosting major state and diplomatic events. He argues it would improve security for large gatherings.

Blocking the project, Trump said, would create risks for future administrations, “means that no future President, living in the White House without this Ballroom, can ever be Safe and Secure at Events, Future Inaugurations, or Global Summits,” Trump said. Trump has said the project will be funded through private donations, not taxpayer money, and is estimated to cost over $400 million.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/400-year-mystery-solved-shakespeare-s-london-home-pinpointed-1776359709677/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/400-year-mystery-solved-shakespeare-s-london-home-pinpointed-1776359709677/embed</a>&nbsp;He has also proposed additional capital projects, including a large commemorative arch for the 250th anniversary of US independence. Critics have accused Trump of altering historic White House spaces to reflect personal style preferences, pointing to recent renovations such as gold interior decorations and changes to the Rose Garden.

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

A US federal judge on Thursday (April 16) extended an order blocking construction of President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom, while allowing work to continue on a planned underground bunker facility. Trump strongly criticized the ruling, calling District Judge Richard Leon “highly political” and “out of control” on his Truth Social platform. “This is a mockery to our Court System!” Trump said. “The Ballroom is deeply important to our National Security, and no Judge can be allowed to stop this Historic and Militarily Imperative Project.” Judge Leon had previously halted Trump’s $400 million ballroom project, ruling that congressional approval is required. The project has already included the demolition of part of the historic East Wing of the White House. In Thursday’s revised order, Leon extended the ban on any above-ground construction of the ballroom on the East Wing site, which once housed the offices of the First Lady. However, he permitted limited underground work to continue. Also Read: Who is Erica Schwartz? Trump's pick for new CDC Director amid leadership turmoil

US judge blocks Trump White House ballroom construction but allows bunker work, as Trump blasts ruling as ‘mockery’ and 'out of control'

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

US President Donald Trump's White House ballroom project has been halted, for now. A judge has ordered the stoppage of construction of the project, reported to cost $400 million. Trump had ordered the demolition of the historic White House East Wing in order to build the ballroom in a 90,000 square foot area. The Trump administration has appealed against the order issued by a judge who had been appointed by his fellow Republican predecessor, George W Bush.<h2>What the judge said about the Trump White House ballroom</h2>US District Judge Richard Leon in Washington was ruling on a plea by the National Trust for Historic Preservation for a preliminary injunction on the project. Granting the injunction sought by the NGO, the judge wrote: “Unless and until Congress blesses this project through statutory authorisation, construction has to stop!”“But here is the good news. It is not too late for Congress to authorise the continued construction of the ballroom project,” Leon added.“The president may at any time go to Congress to obtain express authority to construct a ballroom and to do so with private funds,” Leon wrote adding, “Indeed, Congress may even choose to appropriate funds for the ballroom, or at least decide that some other funding scheme is acceptable. Either way, Congress will thereby retain its authority over the nation’s property and its oversight over the government’s spending.”<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-trump-ballroom-plan-faces-legal-heat-as-critics-flag-design-flaws-wion-1774859401547/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-trump-ballroom-plan-faces-legal-heat-as-critics-flag-design-flaws-wion-1774859401547/embed</a><h2>Why is there opposition to Trump ballroom project?</h2>The NGO had opposed the destruction of the historic East Wing without congressional approval. In doing so, it alleged in the petition that Trump exceeded his authority.The judge, in his opionion, wrote: “The National Trust’s interests in a constitutional and lawful process will be vindicated. And the American people will benefit from the branches of government exercising their constitutionally prescribed roles. Not a bad outcome, that!”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-staircase-to-nowhere-leavitt-slams-report-revealing-white-house-ballroom-design-flaws-1774846838825">'Staircase to nowhere': Leavitt slams report revealing White House ballroom design 'flaws'</a><h2>Trump hits out at judge over his pet project&nbsp;</h2>Trump claimed in a Truth Social post that the ballroom project is “under budget, ahead of schedule, being built at no cost to the taxpayer, and will be the finest building of its kind anywhere in the world”.He attacked the National Trust as “a radical left group of lunatics” and said of the judge: “He is WRONG! Congressional approval has never been given on anything, in these circumstances, big or small, having to do with construction at the White House.”That is factually wrong, as the last renovation of the White House by President Harry Truman in 1949–52 took place after congressional approval.According to reports, the project is privately funded. Donors include tech firms like Meta, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Palantir, Google and Comcast, besides defence firm Lockheed Martin

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

US President Donald Trump's White House ballroom project has been halted, for now. A judge has ordered the stoppage of construction of the project, reported to cost $400 million. Trump had ordered the demolition of the historic White House East Wing in order to build the ballroom in a 90,000 square foot area. The Trump administration has appealed against the order issued by a judge who had been appointed by his fellow Republican predecessor, George W Bush. What the judge said about the Trump White House ballroom US District Judge Richard Leon in Washington was ruling on a plea by the National Trust for Historic Preservation for a preliminary injunction on the project. Granting the injunction sought by the NGO, the judge wrote: “Unless and until Congress blesses this project through statutory authorisation, construction has to stop!” “But here is the good news. It is not too late for Congress to authorise the continued construction of the ballroom project,” Leon added. “The president may at any time go to Congress to obtain express authority to construct a ballroom and to do so with private funds,” Leon wrote adding, “Indeed, Congress may even choose to appropriate funds for the ballroom, or at least decide that some other funding scheme is acceptable. Either way, Congress will thereby retain its authority over the nation’s property and its oversight over the government’s spending.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-trump-ballroom-plan-faces-legal-heat-as-critics-flag-design-flaws-wion-1774859401547/embed Why is there opposition to Trump ballroom project? The NGO had opposed the destruction of the historic East Wing without congressional approval. In doing so, it alleged in the petition that Trump exceeded his authority. The judge, in his opionion, wrote: “The National Trust’s interests in a constitutional and lawful process will be vindicated. And the American people will benefit from the branches of government exercising their constitutionally prescribed roles. Not a bad outcome, that!” Also read: 'Staircase to nowhere': Leavitt slams report revealing White House ballroom design 'flaws' Trump hits out at judge over his pet project Trump claimed in a Truth Social post that the ballroom project is “under budget, ahead of schedule, being built at no cost to the taxpayer, and will be the finest building of its kind anywhere in the world”. He attacked the National Trust as “a radical left group of lunatics” and said of the judge: “He is WRONG! Congressional approval has never been given on anything, in these circumstances, big or small, having to do with construction at the White House.” That is factually wrong, as the last renovation of the White House by President Harry Truman in 1949–52 took place after congressional approval. According to reports, the project is privately funded. Donors include tech firms like Meta, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Palantir, Google and Comcast, besides defence firm Lockheed Martin

A US judge halted Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom project. The US president reacted furiously after the judge asked for approval from Congress.&nbsp;

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

The Trump administration has told a federal court that construction of a new White House ballroom must proceed because it is tied to national security needs. The argument was made in a court filing on Monday (December 15), responding to a lawsuit submitted last week by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The group is seeking an immediate pause on the project until it undergoes independent design scrutiny, environmental review, public consultation and congressional approval.&nbsp;As part of its response, the administration submitted a declaration from a senior US Secret Service official saying that additional construction activity at the former East Wing site is required to satisfy the agency’s security standards. The government also indicated it is willing to brief the judge on classified security concerns privately, without the plaintiffs present. The filing provides the clearest picture so far of the ballroom project, shedding light on how it received rapid internal approval and how its scope has continued to evolve. Officials acknowledged that the final architectural plans are still incomplete, even as demolition and preparatory work at the site continues.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-labels-colombia-s-clan-del-golfo-as-terrorist-organisation-amid-peace-talks-1765901719483">US labels Colombia's Clan del Golfo as terrorist organisation amid peace talks</a>&nbsp;John Stanwich, the National Park Service’s White House liaison, wrote that underground construction remains ongoing, with foundation work expected to begin in January. He added that visible, above-ground construction is unlikely to start before April 2026. The National Trust for Historic Preservation did not immediately respond to requests for comment.In its lawsuit, the preservation group asked the US District Court in Washington to halt the project, arguing that the ballroom addition should not move forward without formal reviews and explicit congressional authorisation.&nbsp;Trump ordered the demolition of the East Wing in October to make way for the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom, a privately funded project estimated to cost $300 million and scheduled for completion before the end of his term in 2029. The administration’s filing argues that challenges related to the East Wing demolition are no longer relevant, since the structure has already been removed. It also claims objections to future construction are premature because final designs have not yet been approved.&nbsp;Additionally, the government contends that the preservation group cannot demonstrate immediate harm, as above-ground construction is still months away. It said consultations with federal planning and design bodies will occur in due course, without the need for court intervention. “Even if the plaintiff were able to clear the legal hurdles of standing, ripeness and mootness, it would still fail to justify the extraordinary relief it seeks,” the administration said.&nbsp;While the ballroom proposal has drawn backlash from architects, preservationists and political opponents, the lawsuit represents the strongest effort yet to slow or derail a project that would be nearly double the size of the White House as it stood before the East Wing’s removal. A court hearing on the matter was scheduled for Tuesday in Washington.

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

The Trump administration has told a federal court that construction of a new White House ballroom must proceed because it is tied to national security needs. The argument was made in a court filing on Monday (December 15), responding to a lawsuit submitted last week by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The group is seeking an immediate pause on the project until it undergoes independent design scrutiny, environmental review, public consultation and congressional approval. As part of its response, the administration submitted a declaration from a senior US Secret Service official saying that additional construction activity at the former East Wing site is required to satisfy the agency’s security standards. The government also indicated it is willing to brief the judge on classified security concerns privately, without the plaintiffs present. The filing provides the clearest picture so far of the ballroom project, shedding light on how it received rapid internal approval and how its scope has continued to evolve. Officials acknowledged that the final architectural plans are still incomplete, even as demolition and preparatory work at the site continues. Also Read: US labels Colombia's Clan del Golfo as terrorist organisation amid peace talks John Stanwich, the National Park Service’s White House liaison, wrote that underground construction remains ongoing, with foundation work expected to begin in January. He added that visible, above-ground construction is unlikely to start before April 2026. The National Trust for Historic Preservation did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In its lawsuit, the preservation group asked the US District Court in Washington to halt the project, arguing that the ballroom addition should not move forward without formal reviews and explicit congressional authorisation. Trump ordered the demolition of the East Wing in October to make way for the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom, a privately funded project estimated to cost $300 million and scheduled for completion before the end of his term in 2029. The administration’s filing argues that challenges related to the East Wing demolition are no longer relevant, since the structure has already been removed. It also claims objections to future construction are premature because final designs have not yet been approved. Additionally, the government contends that the preservation group cannot demonstrate immediate harm, as above-ground construction is still months away. It said consultations with federal planning and design bodies will occur in due course, without the need for court intervention. “Even if the plaintiff were able to clear the legal hurdles of standing, ripeness and mootness, it would still fail to justify the extraordinary relief it seeks,” the administration said. While the ballroom proposal has drawn backlash from architects, preservationists and political opponents, the lawsuit represents the strongest effort yet to slow or derail a project that would be nearly double the size of the White House as it stood before the East Wing’s removal. A court hearing on the matter was scheduled for Tuesday in Washington.

Trump administration tells court that the White House ballroom must proceed for security reasons, opposing a preservation group’s bid to halt the $300mn project

Construction has started on the White House's new $250 million ballroom, a lavish 90,000 square-foot venue that will replace portions of the East Wing. While the project is officially being funded by private donors, President Trump has said he will personally cover a significant part of the cost, with some donors reportedly willing to contribute up to $20 million each. Legal experts are raising alarms over the potential ethical implications of such funding, with critics fearing it could open the door for donors to gain special access to the administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;Richard Painter, who served as the Bush White House's chief ethics lawyer, called the project an ‘ethics nightmare’, suggesting it could lead to undue influence from corporations seeking government favours. Among those attending a recent White House donor dinner were executives from major companies such as Blackstone, OpenAI, Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, as well as prominent figures like the Glazer family, owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United. Trump commented that some attendees had suggested donations of up to $25 million, which he said he would gladly accept.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-ll-see-what-happens-trump-reveals-real-reason-why-he-cancelled-budapest-meeting-with-putin-1761095447909">'We’ll see what happens...': Trump reveals REAL reason why he cancelled Budapest meeting with Putin</a>&nbsp;Although the full list of donors has yet to be disclosed, one contributor has been revealed: YouTube, which is contributing $22 million as part of a settlement agreement regarding Trump's suspended account following the January 6th Capitol attack. The donations are being channeled through the Trust for the National Mall, a non-profit organization that collaborates with the National Park Service to fund various White House and national mall projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump and his administration argue that the ballroom will benefit future administrations and save taxpayer money, as it replaces the temporary tents often used for large-scale events. However, critics worry that the new venue could facilitate political fundraising in ways that previous, smaller facilities did not. Despite the controversy, proving any ethical violations is likely to be difficult.

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

Construction has started on the White House's new $250 million ballroom, a lavish 90,000 square-foot venue that will replace portions of the East Wing. While the project is officially being funded by private donors, President Trump has said he will personally cover a significant part of the cost, with some donors reportedly willing to contribute up to $20 million each. Legal experts are raising alarms over the potential ethical implications of such funding, with critics fearing it could open the door for donors to gain special access to the administration. Richard Painter, who served as the Bush White House's chief ethics lawyer, called the project an ‘ethics nightmare’, suggesting it could lead to undue influence from corporations seeking government favours. Among those attending a recent White House donor dinner were executives from major companies such as Blackstone, OpenAI, Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, as well as prominent figures like the Glazer family, owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United. Trump commented that some attendees had suggested donations of up to $25 million, which he said he would gladly accept. Also Read: 'We’ll see what happens...': Trump reveals REAL reason why he cancelled Budapest meeting with Putin Although the full list of donors has yet to be disclosed, one contributor has been revealed: YouTube, which is contributing $22 million as part of a settlement agreement regarding Trump's suspended account following the January 6th Capitol attack. The donations are being channeled through the Trust for the National Mall, a non-profit organization that collaborates with the National Park Service to fund various White House and national mall projects. Trump and his administration argue that the ballroom will benefit future administrations and save taxpayer money, as it replaces the temporary tents often used for large-scale events. However, critics worry that the new venue could facilitate political fundraising in ways that previous, smaller facilities did not. Despite the controversy, proving any ethical violations is likely to be difficult.

The $250M ballroom project at the White House, funded by wealthy donors and corporations, raises concerns of potential ethics violations and ‘pay-to-play’ schemes

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.

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?

In a major expansion of the White House, US President Donald Trump announced building a massive ballroom at the presidential residence that can host a large number of guests. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt unveiled the upcoming makeover during a media briefing on Thursday (Jul 31), saying that the $200 million project has been funded by Trump himself and unspecified donors.&nbsp;“For 150 years, presidents, administrations and White House staff have longed for a large event space on the White House complex,” the spokeswoman said.&nbsp;“There’s never been a president that was good at ballrooms,” the 79-year-old president, who is a former real estate developer, told reporters. “I’m good at building things, and we’ll get it built quickly and on time. It’ll be beautiful,” said Trump, adding that the character of the original building would be preserved.&nbsp;<h2>How massive will the new ballroom be?</h2>&nbsp;The White House State Ballroom will span over 90,000 square feet (8,000 square meters). Its “ornately designed and carefully crafted space” will have a seating capacity of 650 people, a significant increase from the earlier capacity of 200 people in the East Room of the White House.&nbsp;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. According to Leavitt, the construction of the ballroom will begin this September and is expected to be completed “well before” Trump’s second term ends in January 2029.&nbsp;<h2>Will the new ballroom replace East Wing?</h2>&nbsp;The ballroom building will replace the East Wing, which contains the offices of the US first lady. The section was constructed in 1902 and has been renovated and changed many times. In 1942, a second story was added to the building. According to the model of the project released by the White House, the white building will have a similar design structure to the main White House building.&nbsp;The project is part of one of the renovations that Trump has brought to the White House, including the Oval Office makeover he did as soon as he began his second term in January.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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. 

In a major expansion of the White House, US President Donald Trump announced building a massive ballroom at the presidential residence that can host a large number of guests. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt unveiled the upcoming makeover during a media briefing on Thursday (Jul 31), saying that the $200 million project has been funded by Trump himself and unspecified donors. “For 150 years, presidents, administrations and White House staff have longed for a large event space on the White House complex,” the spokeswoman said. “There’s never been a president that was good at ballrooms,” the 79-year-old president, who is a former real estate developer, told reporters. “I’m good at building things, and we’ll get it built quickly and on time. It’ll be beautiful,” said Trump, adding that the character of the original building would be preserved. How massive will the new ballroom be? The White House State Ballroom will span over 90,000 square feet (8,000 square meters). Its “ornately designed and carefully crafted space” will have a seating capacity of 650 people, a significant increase from the earlier capacity of 200 people in the East Room of the White House. 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. According to Leavitt, the construction of the ballroom will begin this September and is expected to be completed “well before” Trump’s second term ends in January 2029. Will the new ballroom replace East Wing? The ballroom building will replace the East Wing, which contains the offices of the US first lady. The section was constructed in 1902 and has been renovated and changed many times. In 1942, a second story was added to the building. According to the model of the project released by the White House, the white building will have a similar design structure to the main White House building. The project is part of one of the renovations that Trump has brought to the White House, including the Oval Office makeover he did as soon as he began his second term in January.

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.&nbsp;

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