US judge halts Trump's $1.8bn 'anti-weaponisation' fund

A U.S. federal judge has temporarily halted the disbursement of funds from former President Donald Trump's nearly $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" settlement fund. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued the order on Friday, May 29, 2026, to prevent any irreversible payouts while legal challenges against the fund's legality proceed.

The fund, officially totaling $1.776 billion, was established by the Trump administration to resolve a $10 billion lawsuit filed by Trump and his sons against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding the unauthorized leak of his tax returns. It was intended to compensate individuals claiming to be victims of government "weaponization" or "lawfare."

However, the fund has drawn significant criticism, with opponents, including watchdog groups and some lawmakers, calling it a "slush fund" lacking transparency and accountability. Concerns have been raised about its potential to benefit Trump's political allies, including individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. A hearing is set for June 12 to consider extending the temporary block.