In a long-anticipated courtroom showdown, Michael Cohen, once Donald Trump’s loyal lawyer, testified that he manipulated the value of Trump’s assets as directed by the former president. Cohen claimed Trump asked him to increase asset values arbitrarily to achieve desired figures. These allegations are central to New York Attorney General Letitia James’ lawsuit accusing Trump of duping banks and insurers. Trump and his legal team attempted to discredit Cohen, citing his previous guilty pleas and questioning his credibility. The trial revolves around claims of fraud, conspiracy, insurance fraud, and falsifying business records. Trump denies wrongdoing, insisting that his financial statements contained disclaimers.