• Judge temporarily halts Trump’s ballroom project over legal violations
• Project cannot proceed without congress approval

A federal judge in the United States has temporarily stopped the construction of a massive ballroom at the White House, a project recently launched by President Donald Trump, citing failure to complete required legal procedures before work began.

The ruling follows a lawsuit filed by the organization "National Trust for Historic Preservation," which accused the administration of bypassing regulations governing projects at historic sites.

Judge Richard Leon, in his 35-page decision, emphasized that the project cannot continue "unless it receives explicit authorization from Congress," adding sharply that the President "is not the owner of the White House, but merely its steward for future generations."

Constitutional and Procedural Dispute

The ruling noted that the administration failed to submit project plans to the relevant authorities, did not conduct an environmental review, and ignored the need for Congress approval—a violation of the U.S. Constitution granting the legislative branch oversight over federal property.

The judge also rejected the administration’s claim that delays would harm national security, calling it "baseless," and added that the large excavation next to the White House is "a result of the President’s own decisions."

Trump Responds and Plans Appeal

Trump announced his intention to appeal the decision, asserting he does not need Congress’s approval to proceed. He insisted the new ballroom is necessary to host world figures, including King Charles III, expected to visit Washington next month.

Trump described the current setup as "inadequate," warning that a temporary tent could be embarrassing if it rains. He also criticized the organization that filed the lawsuit, claiming the project is "under budget, costs taxpayers nothing, and will be the best of its kind in the world."

Controversial Project

The administration had already begun demolishing the East Wing of the White House, built in 1902, to make way for the new ballroom. Plans later expanded from a 500-person room to a facility capable of hosting 1,350 guests.

The project is estimated at $400 million, fully funded by private donations.

Historic Preservation

The organization’s president, Carol Quillen, welcomed the ruling, calling it "a victory for the American people and for one of the nation’s most iconic historic sites," and stressed the administration must comply with the law before continuing any work.

Under the court order, the project halt takes effect in 14 days, giving the White House time to appeal, while legal battles are expected to continue over one of the most controversial projects in U.S. presidential history.