World News: U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a massive defamation lawsuit demanding $10 billion from the Wall Street Journal, its parent company News Corp, founder Rupert Murdoch, and two of its journalists. The case was filed in a federal court in Miami on Saturday.
The Controversial Report
The lawsuit was filed after the Wall Street Journal published a report alleging that Donald Trump had sent an offensive birthday greeting to Jeffrey Epstein back in 2003. The article described a letter included in a birthday album, allegedly featuring a picture of a nude woman and Trump's signature below her waist. The note reportedly read, “Happy Birthday and May Every Day Bring a Wonderful Secret.”
Trump Denies Claims
In response to the article, Trump denied ever sending such a message. Posting on his social platform, Truth Social, he wrote, “I don’t paint.” However, reports point out that Trump had previously made several sketches that were auctioned off for charity in the early 2000s. These drawings often featured bold black lines and his recognizable signature.
Legal Action and Allegations
Trump’s legal team argues that the report has severely damaged his reputation, especially considering its timing. The lawsuit claims this publication could cause ongoing financial harm to Trump. It names multiple individuals and organizations, including Rupert Murdoch, Dow Jones (the Journal's publisher), and CEO Robert Thompson.
Background on Jeffrey Epstein
Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while he was awaiting trial on federal charges. His case has remained a major point of controversy and conspiracy, involving many high-profile figures.
Call for More Transparency
The U.S. administration is also under pressure from Trump’s supporters to release sealed grand jury records related to Epstein. A request was submitted to a federal court on Friday seeking the unsealing of specific confidential documents. However, it's unclear whether the release of these records would address public concern or only deepen the debate.
