Politics · India Bureau
Trump Jr's Bahamas wedding partly funded by Putin-linked Russian oligarch
Donald Trump Jr's bride has confirmed that a Russian businessman with close ties to Vladimir Putin helped bankroll their May wedding celebrations in the Bahamas. The disclosure comes after investigative reports revealed the extent of the oligarch's financial involvement in the three-day event.
LSN India ·
Bettina Trump acknowledged on Monday that Umar Kremlev, a Russian oligarch and head of the International Boxing Association, substantially funded post-wedding festivities for her and her new husband. In an Instagram post signed by the couple, she described Kremlev as a "dear friend" who "very generously hosted two incredible nights of celebrations for us AFTER our wedding."
According to investigative reporting, Kremlev covered hundreds of thousands of dollars in wedding expenses for the celebration held across private islands in the Bahamas. His financial support extended to renting one of two exclusive island venues for the multi-day event.
Bettina Trump characterised the funding as "an extraordinarily generous wedding gift from a friend," expressing gratitude for what she termed an exceptional gesture. The couple's acknowledgment comes amid heightened scrutiny of financial connections between prominent American figures and Russian business interests, particularly those with reported links to the Kremlin.
Kremlev's role as president of the International Boxing Association has given him significant influence in global sports governance, though his background and business dealings have previously drawn international attention regarding sanctions and geopolitical concerns.