The trial of Sywert van Lienden and his partners commenced, focusing on the legality of their lucrative face mask deal during the pandemic. The judge clarified that moral implications are not under scrutiny, urging a distinction between truth and media narratives. Van Lienden claims he is a victim of media judgment, while his defense argues that the Dutch health ministry was aware of the circumstances surrounding the mask transactions. The outcome will determine if allegations of defrauding the state remain in the case.