Trump Criticizes Former Adviser Over Financial Deal with Venezuelan-Linked Firm

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized his former adviser, attorney Alina Habba Meldon, following her securing a financial contract exceeding $50 million with a company linked to the family of a Venezuelan banker previously accused of bribery in the United States. Trump described the situation as "provocative and unacceptable," despite earlier statements praising her loyalty and courage. In comments made Saturday evening at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, Trump stated that Habba obtaining this contract while working at the U.S. Department of Justice was completely unacceptable, adding, "I think it was provocative and absolutely infuriating, totally unacceptable... absolutely unacceptable." He explained that he told his former lawyer he did not want her to receive any money, calling the incident "horrible." Reports indicate that the family of Venezuelan banker Julio Herrera Velutini signed an agreement with Habba guaranteeing her over $50 million over four years, with the contract stipulating an annual payment of $10 million plus bonuses. This occurred while Habba was serving as acting U.S. Attorney General in New Jersey, shortly after the company was registered in late October 2025. Herrera had faced criminal bribery charges in the U.S. before entering a guilty plea agreement in August 2025. Information shows that a court had disqualified Habba from holding the Attorney General position before she began working for the Herrera family. She resigned on December 8 and was appointed the same day as senior adviser to the Attorney General, a position she held when she started working for Concord Partners on January 1. On January 15, 2026, Trump issued a presidential pardon for Herrera. Habba Meldon denied last week that the contract was linked to the presidential pardon, asserting she did not receive any payment for it, did not meet anyone at the White House or Justice Department regarding the pardon, and did not perform any work related to obtaining a pardon for anyone. The case has raised questions about the timing of Habba's work for the Herrera family while holding an advisory role at the Justice Department, as well as the subsequent presidential pardon of the banker. Prior to this controversy, Trump had repeatedly praised the Iraqi-born attorney, describing her as "steadfast in her loyalty" with unparalleled willpower, and lauded her bravery and support during his legal battles. He called her a "fierce personality," commending her aggressive approach toward critics and her media presence defending him. He also defended appointing her as an adviser, saying few people understand how to manipulate the justice system and use it as a weapon like she does.