Former President Donald Trump Faces Charges for Mishandling Classified Documents, Including US Nuclear Secrets and Military Plans
Former President Donald Trump has been indicted on 37 counts, accusing him of mishandling numerous classified documents, including sensitive information about US nuclear programs and defense capabilities. The charges state that he stored these files at his Florida estate, even in unconventional places such as a ballroom and a shower. Additionally, Trump is accused of providing false information to investigators and obstructing the ensuing inquiry.
While Trump is currently campaigning for the 2024 presidential election, he firmly denies any wrongdoing in relation to these charges. Notably, charges have also been filed against Walt Nauta, a personal aide to Trump, who allegedly attempted to conceal the files from the FBI by relocating them.
This 49-page indictment is unprecedented, as it marks the first time a former US president faces federal charges. The documents allegedly held by Trump in his boxes contained critical details regarding US nuclear programs, defense capabilities of various countries (including the US), potential vulnerabilities of the US and its allies to military attacks, and plans for retaliatory measures against foreign aggression.
Prosecutors claim that when Trump left office, he took around 300 classified files to Mar-a-Lago, his Palm Beach oceanfront residence and private club, which frequently hosts events for tens of thousands of members and guests. The investigation discovered some of the documents in the ballroom of Mar-a-Lago.
According to the indictment, Trump attempted to impede the FBI’s investigation by suggesting to his lawyer that they should either hide or destroy the files, or falsely inform investigators that they did not exist. “Wouldn’t it be better if we just told them we don’t have anything here?” Trump reportedly remarked to his attorney.
Trump is scheduled to make his initial court appearance in Miami, Florida, on Tuesday, which coincides with his 77th birthday.