LONDON (AP) – A British judge ruled on Thursday that U.S. President Donald Trump is required to pay over 625,000 pounds (approximately $820,000) in legal costs to Orbis Business Intelligence, a consulting firm he unsuccessfully sued in relation to a controversial dossier. The dossier, which included allegations of Trump's involvement in compromising sexual activities in Russia, was compiled by former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele, who was hired by Democrats during the tumultuous 2016 election cycle.

Trump initiated legal proceedings against Orbis in 2022, contesting the validity of the dossier and claiming that the firm violated British data protection laws. The dossier made startling allegations, including claims that Trump had been "compromised" by Russia's security services, had participated in "sex parties" in St. Petersburg, and associated with sex workers in Moscow. Trump has consistently denied all allegations, asserting that the claims were false and detrimental to his reputation, stating in a written witness statement that they were "wholly untrue."

In his testimony, Trump vehemently denied engaging in any "perverted sexual behavior" or hiring prostitutes at a hotel in Moscow. He also refuted the claims of being involved in bribery of Russian officials or providing any material that could be used to blackmail him. Despite these denials, Judge Karen Steyn dismissed the case in February 2024 without adjudicating the truthfulness of the allegations. In her ruling, she indicated that Trump's claim "was bound to fail," partly due to the significant delay in bringing the action.

Following the dismissal, Judge Steyn ordered Trump to cover Orbis's legal costs, which his legal team described as "absolutely outrageously high." After Trump missed the initial installment payment of 290,000 pounds, a subsequent hearing was conducted earlier this year without his presence to determine the total amount owed.

On Thursday, Judge Jason Rowley finalized the amount to be paid by Trump, determining that the president owes a total of 626,058.98 pounds, with interest accruing daily at a rate of 12%. The ruling adds a financial burden to Trump, amidst ongoing legal and political challenges.