Lawyers representing US President Donald Trump have refused to provide financial records requested by the BBC in a $10 billion defamation lawsuit, according to a report by the Financial Times citing court filings.
Read More: BBC to fight Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit
The dispute stems from a lawsuit filed by Trump in Florida in December 2025, in which he alleges that the broadcaster defamed him through a documentary that edited portions of his speech delivered on January 6, 2021. Trump claims the edits created the impression that he encouraged supporters to storm the US Capitol, damaging his reputation and business interests.
Trump lawyers refuse to reveal financial information to BBC in $10bn lawsuit https://t.co/ADN1VkbZmU
— Financial Times (@FT) June 5, 2026
According to the report, BBC lawyers argued in court filings that efforts to assess the alleged financial impact of the documentary have been hindered by the refusal of the Donald J. Trump Revocable Trust to provide financial information requested through subpoenas. The trust, which holds Trump’s business assets and interests, is managed by his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr..
The broadcaster has sought documents relating to the trust’s assets, holdings, properties, inventories and overall value. The requests reportedly cover hundreds of entities associated with the trust, along with tax-related records intended to help determine whether the documentary caused measurable financial harm.
Trump’s lawsuit seeks at least $5 billion in damages on each of two counts, alleging violations of Florida laws concerning deceptive and unfair trade practices.
A spokesperson for Trump’s legal team defended the lawsuit, stating that the BBC had intentionally distorted and manipulated the president’s remarks, resulting in defamatory coverage. The spokesperson added that Trump would continue to pursue legal action against media organisations he believes have spread false information.
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The BBC has apologised for the editing issue but is seeking dismissal of the lawsuit. The broadcaster argues that Trump’s subsequent election victory undermines claims that the documentary caused lasting damage to his reputation or public standing.