Defendant Denies Rage Over Barron Trump Call During London Rape Trial
Matvei Rumiantsev took the stand at Snaresbrook Crown Court this week, he formally denied allegations that a video call from Barron Trump triggered a violent double rape. The 22-year-old former wrestler faces multiple charges stemming from an incident in East London, the case relies heavily on testimony from the U.S. President's son.
Jealousy and Digital Friendship Create Tensions Before Alleged Assault
The trial focuses on a violent episode that occurred on January 18, 2025, within an apartment at New Providence Wharf. The alleged victim had cultivated a close friendship with Barron Trump via social media, this relationship reportedly caused friction with the defendant. Rumiantsev acknowledged to the court that he felt "jealous to some extent" about the connection, he noted the victim and Trump were very close. Prior police involvement occurred in November 2024 regarding a domestic dispute over household items, the victim previously described Rumiantsev as controlling of her friendships. These earlier events provide crucial background for the prosecution's theory that the defendant possessed a motive rooted in possessiveness.
Accused Wrestler Testifies Regarding FaceTime Call with President's Son
During intense cross-examination, Rumiantsev rejected the prosecution's theory that he "flew into a rage" after seeing missed messages on the victim's phone. He testified that he answered the FaceTime call personally, he claimed his intent was to show Trump how the woman was acting during an argument. Defense barrister Sasha Wass KC argued the victim's account is a fabrication, she suggested Rumiantsev only used physical force to restrain the woman during a hysterical episode. The defendant stated that he felt the situation was unfair to both himself and the witness.
However, transcripts revealed in court show that Trump called UK emergency services immediately after witnessing the events via video link. The operator reportedly told the teenager to "stop being rude" as he urgently demanded police intervention for the woman he saw being beaten. Rumiantsev faces a six-count indictment including two counts of rape and intentional strangulation, he also faces charges of perverting the course of justice for allegedly pressuring the woman to withdraw her statement. The prosecution maintains that the "sweetheart" messages sent between the victim and Trump directly provoked the violent assault.
High Profile Testimony Sets Precedent for Remote Digital Witnesses
Legal experts are closely watching how the jury interprets the evidence provided by a witness situated across the Atlantic Ocean. Barron Trump's ability to alert local authorities in real-time establishes a unique example of international emergency cooperation. The outcome of this trial will likely influence future cases involving digital bystanders, the verdict relies heavily on the timeline provided by the emergency call. A conviction would result in a severe prison term for the Russian citizen.
Jurors continue to hear evidence at Snaresbrook Crown Court as the proceedings move toward a conclusion. The final verdict will determine if the physical evidence aligns with the defendant's claims of restraint or the victim's allegations of sexual violence.
