In a major blow to former President Donald Trump, a federal appeals court has upheld an $83.3 million judgment against him in the defamation case brought by writer E. Jean Carroll. Carroll had accused Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s, a claim he denied and called her a liar in response.

The latest ruling from the appeals court affirmed a lower court’s decision in favor of Carroll, who sued Trump for defamation after he publicly discredited her accusations. The court found that Trump’s remarks had damaged Carroll’s reputation and caused her emotional distress, warranting the substantial judgment.

Despite Trump’s repeated appeals to dismiss the case, the court’s decision stands as a significant legal defeat for the former president. The judgment not only highlights the repercussions of Trump’s controversial statements but also serves as a victory for survivors of sexual assault seeking justice.

The ruling is seen as another legal setback for Trump, who faces multiple legal challenges and investigations as he continues to be embroiled in numerous scandals and controversies.