Trump orders inquiry into claim Grenell diverted Kennedy Center donation
Donald Trump reportedly ordered an inquiry after his former lawyer Alina Habba accused Richard Grenell of diverting a $5.6 million donation intended for the Kennedy Center. The allegation matters because Grenell led the centre and Trump’s response puts a close ally under scrutiny.
According to three White House sources, Habba raised the claim in an Oval Office meeting, prompting Trump to call Grenell and ask for an explanation. Grenell denied wrongdoing and said he had never received any payment from Habba’s husband, Turhan Mildon. Kennedy Center records reportedly show a $270,000 pledge from Mildon, which he paid this week; his lawyers have provided text messages to the White House counsel’s office as part of the inquiry.
- Trump ordered an inquiry into a disputed Kennedy Center donation.
- Habba alleges $5.6 million intended for the centre was diverted.
- Grenell denies wrongdoing; Mildon’s lawyers submitted text messages.
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The Kennedy Center in Washington is a major performing arts venue that relies on donations as well as public support. Large gifts may be pledged for its work, but a pledge is a promise to give money and does not by itself show that the full amount has been paid.
Richard Grenell, a former US ambassador and Trump ally, led the centre. Alina Habba is a lawyer who previously represented Trump, and her husband, Turhan Mildon, is reported to have pledged money to the Kennedy Center.
The issue concerns whether money intended for the centre was handled as promised. It matters because questions about donations can affect public confidence in the organisation and because the allegation involves senior figures connected to Trump.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A serious inquiry is justified because the allegation concerns a substantial donation and a public cultural institution, where funds should be traceable and properly used. Reviewing the pledge records and messages could establish what was promised, to whom, and whether any money was diverted, while demonstrating accountability even when a close ally is involved.
The case against
An inquiry prompted by an unverified accusation risks treating suspicion as evidence and can damage reputations before the facts are established. The reported records show a $270,000 pledge rather than the alleged $5.6 million, and Grenell denies receiving payment; a fair response should therefore rely on independent evidence and give those involved a chance to answer.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Trump’s furious phone call over ‘missing’ $5.6m: Alina Habba accuses MAGA loyalist Richard Grenell of brazen plot to take her billionaire husband’s money”.