Senator Warns of 'Potentially Criminal Conduct' Over UAE-World Liberty Financial Deal
Senator Chris Murphy warned that those involved in secret payments from a UAE investor to Trump and his envoy could face jail for “potentially criminal conduct.” The allegations involve Aryam Investment, backed by UAE's Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, which purchased a 49% stake in Trump-linked crypto firm World Liberty Financial for $500 million just before Trump’s inauguration. Approximately $187 million reportedly went to Trump family entities, and at least $31 million to entities linked to envoy Steve Witkoff. After the deal, the Trump administration approved expanded UAE access to advanced U.S. AI chips, previously restricted under Biden. Murphy and others called these payments and subsequent policy changes evidence of corruption and possible bribery. Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Greg Landsman also condemned the arrangement as blatant corruption and have called for reforms. The controversy centers on conflicts of interest between Trump’s crypto activities and U.S. national security policy. Both the White House and World Liberty Financial have declined to comment.
