Trump-Linked WLFI Faces Scrutiny Over Partnership With Sanctioned Blockchain Network

A recent partnership between World Liberty Financial (WLFI) and a blockchain network called AB has sparked controversy after it was discovered that AB's flagship project in East Timor involved individuals sanctioned by the US government.

The partnership, announced on November 12, 2025, granted AB the right to carry WLFI's USD1 stablecoin on its blockchain network. However, an investigation revealed that the project had deep ties to people blacklisted by the US Treasury, including Yang Jian, a Cyprus citizen who was sanctioned for allegedly helping Prince Group CEO Chen Zhi develop a separate resort in Palau.

The Prince Group is accused of running at least 10 violent scam compounds and stealing billions from victims through 'pig butchering' schemes, which involve cultivating online relationships with the victim before taking their money. The group's alleged involvement in AB's East Timor project has raised questions about due diligence in WLFI's partnership with AB.

WLFI's lawyers have stated that the company carried out due diligence on AB and was 'not made aware of the resort or people behind it.' However, an investigation by the Wall Street Journal revealed that Sui Chenggang, a beneficial owner of AB's Cayman Islands company, signed a memorandum of understanding with WLFI in September 2025, just weeks before the partnership was announced.

AB has stated that the East Timor project was the result of a separate agreement that was canceled in November, but the controversy surrounding the partnership has raised concerns about the due diligence process and potential risks associated with partnering with companies tied to sanctioned individuals.