Donald Trump confronts Richard Grenell after claims over missing money

United States President Donald Trump made a telephone call to his ally Richard Grenell to question him about allegations of financial mismanagement, according to the Daily Mail. The call took place from the Oval Office after former personal lawyer Alina Habba Mildon presented claims concerning missing money to the president. [1][4]

According to the Daily Mail, three White House sources said the dispute involved allegations regarding $5.6 million and money connected to the Kennedy Center. The New York Times reported that the two allies are engaged in a wider dispute with roots in Venezuela. [1][4]

Alina Habba Mildon served as counselor to the president from January to March 2025 and was named acting United States attorney for the District of New Jersey in July 2025 before resigning in December 2025. Richard Grenell served as the acting director of the Kennedy Center from February 2025 to March 2026 and has served as special presidential envoy for special missions since 2025. [4][5][6]