A new tranche of documents from a lawsuit filed against Ghislaine Maxwell more than a decade ago could soon be released, according to a report by Mediaite. A Manhattan Federal Court judge has agreed to unseal these files, Miami Herald reporter Julie &nbsp;Brown said in a post on Substack. The late Virginia Roberts Giuffre had filed a defamation lawsuit after Maxwell accused her of fabricating the sex trafficking allegations against Jeffrey Epstein, former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and others.&nbsp;The outlet and Brown have been engaged in a battle to unseal the case files from Giuffre's lawsuit. "The lawsuit was settled in early 2017. I had been told the discovery contained damning evidence against Epstein, Maxwell and other men, and that it was worth trying to get the courts to unseal the documents on the grounds that they were never properly sealed in the first place," Brown wrote.&nbsp;She added that "judicial records by law are supposed to be open to the public", but former judge Robert Sweet, who passed away some time ago, issued a blanket sealing on all the documents because of "sensitive" and "private" information. The files include "hearings and judicial decisions, along with voluminous evidence that Virginia presented to show that Epstein and Maxwell were operating an underage sex trafficking operation, she wrote.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-cami-clark-anthropic-ceo-s-wife-found-in-epstein-emails-asking-him-to-invest-in-porn-business-1786857173215">Who is Cami Clark? Anthropic CEO's wife found in Epstein emails asking him to invest in porn business</a><h2>Brown lashes out against the sealing</h2>"This is not the way sealing is supposed to happen, however. Each document that the lawyers want sealed has to be examined, and those requesting it be sealed must provide legal justification to the judge for doing so. This wasn't done in this case," Brown said in her post.&nbsp;Maxwell has been trying to prevent the release of the files, but her bid was dismissed by Judge Loretta Preska, who noted that "Epstein Files Transparency Act superseded any earlier grand jury arguments," Brown wrote.&nbsp;Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in prison in December 2021 for sex trafficking and other crimes. Giuffre died at the age of 41 in April 2025 at her home in Australia. &nbsp;

Vouminous case files from a lawsuit against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell could soon be unsealed following an order. Virginia Roberts Giuffre had sued them in 2015 after the latter claimed she was lying about the sex trafficking allegations. 

A new tranche of documents from a lawsuit filed against Ghislaine Maxwell more than a decade ago could soon be released, according to a report by Mediaite. A Manhattan Federal Court judge has agreed to unseal these files, Miami Herald reporter Julie Brown said in a post on Substack. The late Virginia Roberts Giuffre had filed a defamation lawsuit after Maxwell accused her of fabricating the sex trafficking allegations against Jeffrey Epstein, former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and others. The outlet and Brown have been engaged in a battle to unseal the case files from Giuffre's lawsuit. "The lawsuit was settled in early 2017. I had been told the discovery contained damning evidence against Epstein, Maxwell and other men, and that it was worth trying to get the courts to unseal the documents on the grounds that they were never properly sealed in the first place," Brown wrote. She added that "judicial records by law are supposed to be open to the public", but former judge Robert Sweet, who passed away some time ago, issued a blanket sealing on all the documents because of "sensitive" and "private" information. The files include "hearings and judicial decisions, along with voluminous evidence that Virginia presented to show that Epstein and Maxwell were operating an underage sex trafficking operation, she wrote. Also Read: Who is Cami Clark? Anthropic CEO's wife found in Epstein emails asking him to invest in porn business Brown lashes out against the sealing "This is not the way sealing is supposed to happen, however. Each document that the lawyers want sealed has to be examined, and those requesting it be sealed must provide legal justification to the judge for doing so. This wasn't done in this case," Brown said in her post. Maxwell has been trying to prevent the release of the files, but her bid was dismissed by Judge Loretta Preska, who noted that "Epstein Files Transparency Act superseded any earlier grand jury arguments," Brown wrote. Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in prison in December 2021 for sex trafficking and other crimes. Giuffre died at the age of 41 in April 2025 at her home in Australia.

Vouminous case files from a lawsuit against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell could soon be unsealed following an order. Virginia Roberts Giuffre had sued them in 2015 after the latter claimed she was lying about the sex trafficking allegations.&nbsp;

Explosive 2015 case files with 'sensitive' and 'private' information about Epstein and Maxwell set to be unsealed

A modeling scout linked to Jeffrey Epstein has been found dead in France. Daniel Siaad, 69, was discovered at his home while French authorities were investigating allegations of rape, human trafficking, and sexual violence. His name reportedly appeared thousands of times in U.S. Justice Department documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Officials have launched an investigation into the cause of death, with a postmortem examination underway. His death is expected to renew global attention on the Epstein network and ongoing investigations.

Epstein-Linked modeling Scout Daniel Siaad found dead in France | Epstein Scandal takes new twist

US Vice President JD Vance has acknowledged that the Trump administration mishandled its communication over the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, saying officials "absolutely screwed up the comms" while insisting there was no effort to cover up evidence. Speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Vance said the administration should have released all the available documents from the outset instead of allowing confusion and speculation to grow."We absolutely screwed up the comms of the Epstein files. Like, we just did," Vance said. "But do I think the reason we screwed up the comms is because we were trying to hide something? No."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-epstein-files-accuse-trump-of-raping-13-year-old-murdering-a-new-born-white-house-says-this-about-allegations-1769823565436">Explosive Epstein files accuse Trump of raping 13-year-old, murdering a newborn; White House says THIS about allegations</a><h2>Vance defends Bondi despite criticism</h2>Vance also addressed criticism directed at former Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose earlier comments about the investigation drew intense scrutiny. Bondi had previously suggested that Epstein's alleged "client list" was "sitting on my desk right now," a remark that fuelled expectations of explosive disclosures.Reflecting on the episode, Vance said Bondi had simply over promised. "I know Pam. I like Pam. I don't think there was anything malicious going on," he said. "I think Pam was trying to respond to the political moment. I think she overstated what we had and what we didn't have."Bondi also came under fire after distributing binders labelled The Epstein Files: Phase 1 and Declassified to conservative commentators and influencers. Much of the material later turned out to be documents that had already been publicly released, adding to criticism that the rollout had been poorly handled.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-photo-vanishes-from-epstein-files-then-reappears-doj-claims-it-was-deleted-out-of-an-abundance-of-caution-sparks-cover-up-claims-1766368755262">Trump photo vanishes from Epstein files, then reappears. DOJ claims it was deleted 'out of an abundance of caution'</a><h2>Epstein file delays fuelled public mistrust</h2>The administration's handling of the Epstein files became one of the most politically damaging controversies of Trump's second term, drawing criticism from both Republicans and Democrats.&nbsp;After months of pressure, Congress passed legislation requiring the Justice Department to release a broader collection of records linked to federal investigations into Epstein. The department began publishing the files in December, releasing heavily redacted material that included photographs, call logs, grand jury testimony and interview transcripts. However, the extensive redactions and missed deadlines for releasing additional records sparked fresh accusations that the government was not being fully transparent.

US Vice President JD Vance has admitted the Trump administration "absolutely screwed up the comms" surrounding the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, while insisting there was no attempt to hide evidence. He also defended Pam Bondi, saying she simply "overpromised" what the admin had.

US Vice President JD Vance has acknowledged that the Trump administration mishandled its communication over the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, saying officials "absolutely screwed up the comms" while insisting there was no effort to cover up evidence. Speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Vance said the administration should have released all the available documents from the outset instead of allowing confusion and speculation to grow. "We absolutely screwed up the comms of the Epstein files. Like, we just did," Vance said. "But do I think the reason we screwed up the comms is because we were trying to hide something? No." Also read | Explosive Epstein files accuse Trump of raping 13-year-old, murdering a newborn; White House says THIS about allegations Vance defends Bondi despite criticism Vance also addressed criticism directed at former Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose earlier comments about the investigation drew intense scrutiny. Bondi had previously suggested that Epstein's alleged "client list" was "sitting on my desk right now," a remark that fuelled expectations of explosive disclosures. Reflecting on the episode, Vance said Bondi had simply over promised. "I know Pam. I like Pam. I don't think there was anything malicious going on," he said. "I think Pam was trying to respond to the political moment. I think she overstated what we had and what we didn't have." Bondi also came under fire after distributing binders labelled The Epstein Files: Phase 1 and Declassified to conservative commentators and influencers. Much of the material later turned out to be documents that had already been publicly released, adding to criticism that the rollout had been poorly handled. Also read | Trump photo vanishes from Epstein files, then reappears. DOJ claims it was deleted 'out of an abundance of caution' Epstein file delays fuelled public mistrust The administration's handling of the Epstein files became one of the most politically damaging controversies of Trump's second term, drawing criticism from both Republicans and Democrats. After months of pressure, Congress passed legislation requiring the Justice Department to release a broader collection of records linked to federal investigations into Epstein. The department began publishing the files in December, releasing heavily redacted material that included photographs, call logs, grand jury testimony and interview transcripts. However, the extensive redactions and missed deadlines for releasing additional records sparked fresh accusations that the government was not being fully transparent.

US Vice President JD Vance has admitted the Trump administration "absolutely screwed up the comms" surrounding the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, while insisting there was no attempt to hide evidence. He also defended Pam Bondi, saying she simply "overpromised" what the admin had.

'We screwed up...': JD Vance admits Trump administration botched Epstein files release

More than five years after Jeffrey Epstein's death, a newly surfaced video is giving the public one of its clearest looks yet inside Little Saint James, the private Caribbean island that became synonymous with the disgraced financier's sex trafficking empire.&nbsp; The footage, which runs for more than 16 minutes, was filmed by Romanian artist Ion Nicola, who worked with Epstein between 2010 and 2019. The video, which was shared with Storyful by Nicola, captures large sections of the island that have rarely, if ever, been seen publicly.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-epstein-files-accuse-trump-of-raping-13-year-old-murdering-a-new-born-white-house-says-this-about-allegations-1769823565436">Explosive Epstein files accuse Trump of raping a 13-year-old, murdering a newborn</a><h2>What does the never-before-seen footage from Epstein island show?</h2>What makes the footage striking isn't just the luxury. It's the eerie normalcy. Manicured lawns stretch towards the sea. Winding roads cut through tropical vegetation. Sculptures dot the landscape. A pier extends into turquoise water while a floating trampoline bobs offshore. At first glance, it resembles an exclusive private resort.Then the camera reaches the island's most infamous building.<h2>Inside the mysterious 'temple'</h2>The striped blue-and-white structure, often referred to online as Epstein's "temple" or "mosque," is shown in unusual detail.Inside, the video shows an office overlooking the ocean, an Apple computer on the desk, bookshelves framed by ornate pillars, sculptures collected from different cultures and a striking mural covering much of the ceiling. A camera mounted on a tripod is also visible behind the desk. Watch a clip of the video shared by Storyful on X here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Never-before-seen footage of the private island of convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein gives a detailed tour of the hideaway to which a number of survivors allege they were trafficked and exploited. Ion Nicola, a Romanian artist who told Storyful he worked for Epstein… <a href="https://t.co/XUnwYkE2SU">pic.twitter.com/XUnwYkE2SU</a>&mdash; Storyful (@Storyful) <a href="https://x.com/Storyful/status/2074917340412838183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to previous New York Times reporting, Epstein personally instructed Nicola on aspects of the building's design. In one email, he even suggested “instead of allah, i thought j’s and e ‘s” (sic).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-33-000-pages-released-yet-they-re-heavily-redacted-full-transparency-or-just-a-pacifier-for-maga-1756890944032">Epstein files: 33,000 pages released, yet they're heavily redacted. 'Full transparency' or just a pacifier for MAGA?</a><h2>Why the footage is drawing attention now</h2>The release comes months after US lawmakers published additional photographs from the island as part of renewed scrutiny surrounding the Epstein files.Although investigators have previously documented the estate, the new footage offers a different perspective, revealing the layout of the island, including its oversized sundial, pool, landscaped gardens and secluded pathways.Little Saint James, located in the US Virgin Islands, has long remained one of the most recognisable symbols of the Epstein case.Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges involving underage girls. His death fuelled years of public speculation, while demands for greater transparency surrounding the investigation have continued.The newly surfaced footage does not introduce new criminal evidence. Instead, it provides one of the most complete visual records yet of the secluded island where some of the most disturbing allegations connected to Epstein unfolded.

A newly surfaced 16-minute video offers one of the clearest looks yet inside Jeffrey Epstein's notorious private island, including the mysterious 'temple' that has fuelled years of speculation. Scroll down to watch the rare footage.

More than five years after Jeffrey Epstein's death, a newly surfaced video is giving the public one of its clearest looks yet inside Little Saint James, the private Caribbean island that became synonymous with the disgraced financier's sex trafficking empire. The footage, which runs for more than 16 minutes, was filmed by Romanian artist Ion Nicola, who worked with Epstein between 2010 and 2019. The video, which was shared with Storyful by Nicola, captures large sections of the island that have rarely, if ever, been seen publicly. Also read | Explosive Epstein files accuse Trump of raping a 13-year-old, murdering a newborn What does the never-before-seen footage from Epstein island show? What makes the footage striking isn't just the luxury. It's the eerie normalcy. Manicured lawns stretch towards the sea. Winding roads cut through tropical vegetation. Sculptures dot the landscape. A pier extends into turquoise water while a floating trampoline bobs offshore. At first glance, it resembles an exclusive private resort. Then the camera reaches the island's most infamous building. Inside the mysterious 'temple' The striped blue-and-white structure, often referred to online as Epstein's "temple" or "mosque," is shown in unusual detail. Inside, the video shows an office overlooking the ocean, an Apple computer on the desk, bookshelves framed by ornate pillars, sculptures collected from different cultures and a striking mural covering much of the ceiling. A camera mounted on a tripod is also visible behind the desk. Watch a clip of the video shared by Storyful on X here:

A newly surfaced 16-minute video offers one of the clearest looks yet inside Jeffrey Epstein's notorious private island, including the mysterious 'temple' that has fuelled years of speculation. Scroll down to watch the rare footage.

Never-before-seen footage exposes eerie interiors of Jeffrey Epstein's private island Little St. James | Watch

A U.S. federal judge has ordered the Justice Department to either release unredacted versions of key files related to Jeffrey Epstein or clearly justify why the information remains hidden. The directive comes amid a lawsuit challenging alleged improper redactions by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.


Judge orders Justice Dept to justify redactions in Epstein files

Ghislaine Maxwell, the close associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has alleged that recently released documents related to the sex offender have revealed evidence that suggests her rights were violated in the case that led to her imprisonment. In a new court filing, Maxwell said that her constitutional rights were violated during the investigation and prosecution. She was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for helping the late financier sexually abuse teenage girls.The former British socialite and girlfriend of Epstein claimed that the lawyers representing accusers acted as extensions of the government, influencing the case against her in ways that violated due process protections.<h2>Bid to overturn 2021 conviction</h2>Maxwell was convicted in 2021 on charges related to recruiting and grooming underage girls for Epstein, the disgraced financier who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges. She is now seeking a writ of habeas corpus, a legal mechanism used to challenge the lawfulness of detention.In her petition, Maxwell has argued that the newly released records suggest that prosecutors failed to do “any real investigation of their own” and relied on outside parties, leading to “misrepresentations to judges and the jury resulting in an unsafe conviction.” Maxwell also alleged gaps in the testimonies of witnesses and government suppression of evidence.<h2>Prosecutors reject Maxwell’s claims</h2>Federal prosecutors strongly dispute her arguments. According to Attorney Jay Clayton in Manhattan, whose office handled Maxwell’s prosecution, he argued that most of her claims were submitted after the legal deadline. He said the remaining arguments relied on speculation, misrepresented facts or legal principles, and did not demonstrate that she was denied a fair trial.“In short, the defendant – for multiple, independent reasons – utterly fails to carry her burden to overturn her proper conviction and just sentence,” Clayton said ‌in a ⁠court filing released on Wednesday (Jun 24).

Ghislaine Maxwell is seeking to overturn her 2021 conviction, claiming newly released Epstein files show violations of her constitutional rights. Prosecutors have dismissed the allegations.

Ghislaine Maxwell, the close associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has alleged that recently released documents related to the sex offender have revealed evidence that suggests her rights were violated in the case that led to her imprisonment. In a new court filing, Maxwell said that her constitutional rights were violated during the investigation and prosecution. She was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for helping the late financier sexually abuse teenage girls. The former British socialite and girlfriend of Epstein claimed that the lawyers representing accusers acted as extensions of the government, influencing the case against her in ways that violated due process protections. Bid to overturn 2021 conviction Maxwell was convicted in 2021 on charges related to recruiting and grooming underage girls for Epstein, the disgraced financier who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges. She is now seeking a writ of habeas corpus, a legal mechanism used to challenge the lawfulness of detention. In her petition, Maxwell has argued that the newly released records suggest that prosecutors failed to do “any real investigation of their own” and relied on outside parties, leading to “misrepresentations to judges and the jury resulting in an unsafe conviction.” Maxwell also alleged gaps in the testimonies of witnesses and government suppression of evidence. Prosecutors reject Maxwell’s claims Federal prosecutors strongly dispute her arguments. According to Attorney Jay Clayton in Manhattan, whose office handled Maxwell’s prosecution, he argued that most of her claims were submitted after the legal deadline. He said the remaining arguments relied on speculation, misrepresented facts or legal principles, and did not demonstrate that she was denied a fair trial. “In short, the defendant – for multiple, independent reasons – utterly fails to carry her burden to overturn her proper conviction and just sentence,” Clayton said ‌in a ⁠court filing released on Wednesday (Jun 24).

Ghislaine Maxwell is seeking to overturn her 2021 conviction, claiming newly released Epstein files show violations of her constitutional rights. Prosecutors have dismissed the allegations.

Ghislaine Maxwell claims Epstein files revealed flaws in her conviction case

Bill Gates admitted to having multiple affairs at a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee earlier this month. The transcript was released on Tuesday, in which the Microsoft co-founder also said that he may have been around Jeffrey Epstein's victims. The 70-year-old said that his relationship with the late sex offender lasted three years and was strictly professional. For the first time, the names of the women Gates had affairs with were also released. He admitted to a relationship with Alice Jacobs Nesselrodt, a medical entrepreneur with a doctorate from Harvard Medical School, and Karima Nigmatulina, a Russian nuclear scientist. In total, he said he had three extramarital affairs.&nbsp;He said that he told Melinda about the affairs with Nigmatulina and Mila Antonova, a Russian bridge player, before 2013. He also confessed to the one with Jacobs, although he said he couldn't remember when. He said the affair with Jacobs happened before 2010. Gates said that the news was "very distressing" for Melinda, but they "did not talk about getting divorced." Talking about his meeting with the Russian nuclear scientist, Gates said that they met through her work on "disease modelling and nuclear fission work", during which time she was working for a company called TerraPower, in which Gates was an investor. He said he had sex with Nigmatulina in London, and it is referenced in the Epstein Files.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-deeply-sorry-for-epstein-ties-here-s-what-he-revealed-to-lawmakers-during-closed-door-hearing-1781137395532">Bill Gates faces Congress: What he may reveal about Jeffrey Epstein under oath</a><h2>Gates was unaware that Jacobs knew Epstein&nbsp;</h2>The committee members told Gates that Dr Jacobs came in touch with Epstein in October 2009. She then introduced Epstein to Dr Boris Nikolic, one of his most trusted employees, who then became a close friend of Gates and was the key link between Epstein and Gates. He was asked about an email where Jacobs called Nikolic her "best friend". Gates said he wasn't aware that she knew Epstein. He said that he never talked about any of the three women with Epstein, and the sex offender likely learned about them through Nikolic.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/after-ties-with-epstein-it-is-revealed-bill-gates-was-accused-of-over-20-affairs-in-divorce-filings-report-1780324554696">After ties with Epstein, it is revealed Bill Gates was accused of over 20 affairs in divorce filings: Report</a><h2>Gates was introduced to Epstein by his confidante Nikolic</h2>At the hearing, Gates was also asked if her had ever had a sexually transmitted disease. "I never had an STD," he said. Epstein Files released in January this year showed that Gates tried to secretly give his wife, Melinda, antibiotics for an STD. Gates was introduced to Epstein in 2011 by Nikolic and said that he was likely the one who told him about two of his extramarital affairs. “I think that Epstein, when he was writing emails to himself, took every potential negative thing he knew, and some that are completely false, and he put those into draft emails to himself,” Gates said. The hearing was primarily to know whether Gates had any other ties to the convicted sex offender.&nbsp;

The transcript of the closed-door interview of Bill Gates with the House Oversight Committee was released on Tuesday. It names the women he had an affair with for the first time, which includes a Russian nuclear scientist. 

Bill Gates admitted to having multiple affairs at a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee earlier this month. The transcript was released on Tuesday, in which the Microsoft co-founder also said that he may have been around Jeffrey Epstein's victims. The 70-year-old said that his relationship with the late sex offender lasted three years and was strictly professional. For the first time, the names of the women Gates had affairs with were also released. He admitted to a relationship with Alice Jacobs Nesselrodt, a medical entrepreneur with a doctorate from Harvard Medical School, and Karima Nigmatulina, a Russian nuclear scientist. In total, he said he had three extramarital affairs. He said that he told Melinda about the affairs with Nigmatulina and Mila Antonova, a Russian bridge player, before 2013. He also confessed to the one with Jacobs, although he said he couldn't remember when. He said the affair with Jacobs happened before 2010. Gates said that the news was "very distressing" for Melinda, but they "did not talk about getting divorced." Talking about his meeting with the Russian nuclear scientist, Gates said that they met through her work on "disease modelling and nuclear fission work", during which time she was working for a company called TerraPower, in which Gates was an investor. He said he had sex with Nigmatulina in London, and it is referenced in the Epstein Files. Also Read: Bill Gates faces Congress: What he may reveal about Jeffrey Epstein under oath Gates was unaware that Jacobs knew Epstein The committee members told Gates that Dr Jacobs came in touch with Epstein in October 2009. She then introduced Epstein to Dr Boris Nikolic, one of his most trusted employees, who then became a close friend of Gates and was the key link between Epstein and Gates. He was asked about an email where Jacobs called Nikolic her "best friend". Gates said he wasn't aware that she knew Epstein. He said that he never talked about any of the three women with Epstein, and the sex offender likely learned about them through Nikolic. Also Read: After ties with Epstein, it is revealed Bill Gates was accused of over 20 affairs in divorce filings: Report Gates was introduced to Epstein by his confidante Nikolic At the hearing, Gates was also asked if her had ever had a sexually transmitted disease. "I never had an STD," he said. Epstein Files released in January this year showed that Gates tried to secretly give his wife, Melinda, antibiotics for an STD. Gates was introduced to Epstein in 2011 by Nikolic and said that he was likely the one who told him about two of his extramarital affairs. “I think that Epstein, when he was writing emails to himself, took every potential negative thing he knew, and some that are completely false, and he put those into draft emails to himself,” Gates said. The hearing was primarily to know whether Gates had any other ties to the convicted sex offender.

The transcript of the closed-door interview of Bill Gates with the House Oversight Committee was released on Tuesday. It names the women he had an affair with for the first time, which includes a Russian nuclear scientist.&nbsp;

Bill Gates admits to affair with Russian nuclear scientist, two other women; transcript names all of them

Tech billionaire Bill Gates appeared voluntarily before a congressional committee in Washington to answer questions about his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Gates said he hoped his testimony would assist efforts to deliver justice for victims. His ties to Epstein have faced renewed scrutiny after millions of pages of investigative documents were released by the US Department of Justice. Gates has denied any wrongdoing, while acknowledging that meeting Epstein was a mistake and a lapse in judgement.

Bill Gates Flew in Jeffrey Epstein's Plane, But Knows Nothing Of His Crimes?

Trump officials held an emergency situation room meeting to contain the leaks about their handling of Epstein Files, details an upcoming book “Regime Change” by New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan. The book reveals that top Trump White House officials including VP JD Vance and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, gathered in the situation room, last summer on July 17 to debate how to manage the growing scandal. The book is set to be released on June 23.&nbsp;Vice President JD Vance suggested a PR gambit- to invite Tucker Carlson for an interview of Jeffrey Epstein's long time girlfriend and coconspirator Ghislane Maxwell, &nbsp;and get a statement that Trump had nothing to do with Epstein. "It might help the president if Maxwell was willing to state that Trump had not been part of any wrongdoing with Epstein," read an excrept from the Haberman and Swan article. Vance wanted all the files to be released as soon as possible while Trump wanted them to “be buried”. He was snapping at anyone who mentions it. "His staff largely avoided the subject in their conversations with him, forced to worry among themselves."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opendoor-shuts-india-operations-relocates-roles-us-ai-restructuring-1781170462982">Opendoor shuts India operations, relocates roles to US under AI-driven restructuring</a>Dan Bongino, then Trump's Deputy FBI Director said that it was going to be Trump's “Iran Contra”. The authors note that the Trump administration officials were almost clear but refusing to admit. “The president could break institutions, redirect the federal government against his enemies and bring the world's richest men into the Oval Office bearing tribute. But he could not, it turned out, make Jeffrey Epstein disappear.”The authors claim that just before the Wall Street Journal report about Trump's birthday letter to Epstein, which prompted a defamation lawsuit from Trump, he had called News Corp's chief executive, Robert Thomson; News Corp's owner, Rupert Murdoch; and The Journal's editor in chief, Emma Tucker to halt publishing of the story. He reportedly called Tucker a traitor who hates America.White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said that Trump has been completely exonerated from Epstein and helped Epstein's victims more than any other President. "Just as President Trump has said, he's been totally exonerated on anything relating to Epstein. And by releasing thousands of pages of documents, cooperating with the House Oversight Committee's subpoena request, signing the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and calling for more investigations into Epstein's Democrat friends, President Trump has done more for Epstein's victims than anyone before him."&nbsp;&nbsp;

An upcoming book by Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan claims Trump administration officials held an emergency Situation Room meeting to discuss Epstein files leaks, with JD Vance proposing a media strategy involving Ghislaine Maxwell.

Trump officials held an emergency situation room meeting to contain the leaks about their handling of Epstein Files, details an upcoming book “Regime Change” by New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan. The book reveals that top Trump White House officials including VP JD Vance and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, gathered in the situation room, last summer on July 17 to debate how to manage the growing scandal. The book is set to be released on June 23. Vice President JD Vance suggested a PR gambit- to invite Tucker Carlson for an interview of Jeffrey Epstein's long time girlfriend and coconspirator Ghislane Maxwell, and get a statement that Trump had nothing to do with Epstein. "It might help the president if Maxwell was willing to state that Trump had not been part of any wrongdoing with Epstein," read an excrept from the Haberman and Swan article. Vance wanted all the files to be released as soon as possible while Trump wanted them to “be buried”. He was snapping at anyone who mentions it. "His staff largely avoided the subject in their conversations with him, forced to worry among themselves." Also Read: Opendoor shuts India operations, relocates roles to US under AI-driven restructuring Dan Bongino, then Trump's Deputy FBI Director said that it was going to be Trump's “Iran Contra”. The authors note that the Trump administration officials were almost clear but refusing to admit. “The president could break institutions, redirect the federal government against his enemies and bring the world's richest men into the Oval Office bearing tribute. But he could not, it turned out, make Jeffrey Epstein disappear.” The authors claim that just before the Wall Street Journal report about Trump's birthday letter to Epstein, which prompted a defamation lawsuit from Trump, he had called News Corp's chief executive, Robert Thomson; News Corp's owner, Rupert Murdoch; and The Journal's editor in chief, Emma Tucker to halt publishing of the story. He reportedly called Tucker a traitor who hates America. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said that Trump has been completely exonerated from Epstein and helped Epstein's victims more than any other President. "Just as President Trump has said, he's been totally exonerated on anything relating to Epstein. And by releasing thousands of pages of documents, cooperating with the House Oversight Committee's subpoena request, signing the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and calling for more investigations into Epstein's Democrat friends, President Trump has done more for Epstein's victims than anyone before him."

An upcoming book by Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan claims Trump administration officials held an emergency Situation Room meeting to discuss Epstein files leaks, with JD Vance proposing a media strategy involving Ghislaine Maxwell.

'Trump's Iran-Contra': New book reveals Trump officials' internal panic over Epstein controversy

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has addressed allegations linked to newly scrutinised Epstein-related documents, insisting that he has "never victimised anyone." His testimony has reignited public interest in the wider Jeffrey Epstein case, raising fresh questions about powerful figures whose names have appeared in court filings and investigative records.

Epstein Files: Bill Gates Testimony In Epstein Files Scandal, Says 'I Never Victimised Anyone'

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates denied ever harming anyone and expressed regret over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as he appeared before the House Oversight Committee for a closed-door interview on Wednesday.&nbsp;The billionaire philanthropist was questioned by lawmakers about his relationship with Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving underage girls.&nbsp;In prepared remarks released as the hearing began, Gates said he never witnessed any criminal conduct by Epstein and had no indication that such activity was taking place. "I never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct," Gates said.&nbsp;The former Microsoft chief also sought to distance himself from Epstein and denied any wrongdoing. "I never went to his island, his ranch, or his Florida home. I have never victimised anyone."&nbsp;The 69-year-old acknowledged that meeting Epstein had been a mistake and apologised for any credibility his association may have given the disgraced financier.&nbsp;"I should never have met with Epstein in the first place," he said, adding, “If the time I spent with Epstein lent him any credibility, I am deeply sorry.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-struck-two-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-warns-all-vessel-traffic-will-be-targeted-1781135032382">Iran hits American bases in Bahrain, Kuwait; declares Hormuz fully closed in retaliation for fresh US strikes</a><h2>What Gates revealed during the hearing</h2>Gates said Epstein had access to sensitive details about his personal life, including the fact that he had been unfaithful during his marriage. However, he rejected allegations linked to a 2013 draft email in which Epstein appeared to suggest he had helped manage fallout from extramarital affairs, describing the email as fake and denying the claims.&nbsp;He also said Epstein attempted to use personal information and false claims to pressure him into resuming contact. "He was unsuccessful in this effort, but it shows some of the ways he tried to leverage his interactions with me to further his agenda."&nbsp;The philanthropist said he now believes Epstein sought relationships with prominent and respected individuals to project legitimacy and improve his public image.&nbsp;He said Epstein wanted to build "an image of legitimacy" through ties to powerful and reputable people.&nbsp;Gates also accepted that he had increasingly extensive conversations and meetings about charitable giving with Epstein from 2011 to 2014. But he said no vehicle for donations was created, no money was raised, and their interactions ended in December 2014.&nbsp;The Microsoft co-founder also stressed that appearing in Epstein-related documents should not be viewed as evidence of criminal conduct.&nbsp;Following the hearing, Republican Congressman Tim Burchett said Gates appeared "well coached" and suggested he had provided little new information. However, committee Democrat Robert Garcia said the businessman had been cooperative and had shared information about other people connected to Epstein.

The former Microsoft chief distanced himself from Jeffrey Epstein, stating that he had never visited Epstein's island, ranch or Florida home, and denied any involvement in wrongdoing.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates denied ever harming anyone and expressed regret over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as he appeared before the House Oversight Committee for a closed-door interview on Wednesday. The billionaire philanthropist was questioned by lawmakers about his relationship with Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving underage girls. In prepared remarks released as the hearing began, Gates said he never witnessed any criminal conduct by Epstein and had no indication that such activity was taking place. "I never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct," Gates said. The former Microsoft chief also sought to distance himself from Epstein and denied any wrongdoing. "I never went to his island, his ranch, or his Florida home. I have never victimised anyone." The 69-year-old acknowledged that meeting Epstein had been a mistake and apologised for any credibility his association may have given the disgraced financier. "I should never have met with Epstein in the first place," he said, adding, “If the time I spent with Epstein lent him any credibility, I am deeply sorry.” Also Read: Iran hits American bases in Bahrain, Kuwait; declares Hormuz fully closed in retaliation for fresh US strikes What Gates revealed during the hearing Gates said Epstein had access to sensitive details about his personal life, including the fact that he had been unfaithful during his marriage. However, he rejected allegations linked to a 2013 draft email in which Epstein appeared to suggest he had helped manage fallout from extramarital affairs, describing the email as fake and denying the claims. He also said Epstein attempted to use personal information and false claims to pressure him into resuming contact. "He was unsuccessful in this effort, but it shows some of the ways he tried to leverage his interactions with me to further his agenda." The philanthropist said he now believes Epstein sought relationships with prominent and respected individuals to project legitimacy and improve his public image. He said Epstein wanted to build "an image of legitimacy" through ties to powerful and reputable people. Gates also accepted that he had increasingly extensive conversations and meetings about charitable giving with Epstein from 2011 to 2014. But he said no vehicle for donations was created, no money was raised, and their interactions ended in December 2014. The Microsoft co-founder also stressed that appearing in Epstein-related documents should not be viewed as evidence of criminal conduct. Following the hearing, Republican Congressman Tim Burchett said Gates appeared "well coached" and suggested he had provided little new information. However, committee Democrat Robert Garcia said the businessman had been cooperative and had shared information about other people connected to Epstein.

The former Microsoft chief distanced himself from Jeffrey Epstein, stating that he had never visited Epstein's island, ranch or Florida home, and denied any involvement in wrongdoing.

Bill Gates 'deeply sorry' for Epstein ties; Here's what he revealed to lawmakers during closed door hearing

Bill Gates Testimony In Epstein Files Scandal: 'I Never Victimised Anyone'

Bill Gates was scheduled to appear before Congress on Wednesday as it investigates ​the Justice Department's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, highlighting the billionaire's contacts with the convicted ‌sex offender who ensnared women and girls from poor or unstable backgrounds.
The Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O), opens new tab founder will testify privately to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which is investigating possible federal mismanagement in the cases against Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell and related ​issues.


Microsoft Founder Bill Gates Testifies to US House Committee Investigating Epstein

Tova Noel, a former correction officer who had previously said that she was the last person to see Jeffrey Epstein alive, has denied that she was the orange shape spotted moving up the stairs of Epstein's tier, further clouding the mystery of what happened that night. During a closed-door deposition with the House Oversight Committee, Noel testified under oath that she was not present on the stairs at that time, never carried anything orange, and did not issue orange garments to any inmates. The footage near Epstein's cell showed an orange-colored figure moving up a staircase at approximately 10:39 pm on August 9, 2019, just the day before Epstein was declared dead."To be very honest, I don't know what it is, who it is, because I never went back to the tier, and I was never carrying anything orange at all, and I never issued anything orange to anyone in the SHU — not just only Epstein, just anyone," said Noel.<h2>Tova Noel was involved in tempering prison footage&nbsp;</h2>Tova Noel was initially charged with falsifying records to cover up missed 30-minute inmate checks. She has denied having any involvement in Epstein's death and blamed some of the problems that came to light following the death of Epstein on the "dysfunctional culture" at Manhattan's Metropolitan Correctional Centre. The Department of Justice dropped charges against her and other guards after they completed community service. Tova Noel was the last person to have direct interaction with Epstein, during an inmate count around 10:00 pm, who was discovered dead on the next morning at 6.30.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-mexican-teachers-are-protesting-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1780736833505">Why Mexican teachers are protesting ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener</a>"My responsibility to conduct counts and rounds was improperly executed because of severe understaffing, a lack of adequate training, inadequate communication between management and frontline correctional officers, and other systemic failures," said Noel.Noel testified that Epstein received unusual privileges at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre (MCC). This included access to extra bed linens, medications, and a CPAP machine. When asked if she had any reason to believe Epstein did not die by suicide, Noel said, “No.”<h2>What was the orange object?</h2>The investigators have previously claimed that the orange object might have been someone carrying inmate clothing upstairs. While video forensic analysts cited by CBS News dispute this claim, they say that the figure's movement looks like an individual in orange clothing moving up the stairs. The two security cameras outside his cell malfunctioned according to official accounts. Despite this ongoing scrutiny, the ruling remains that Epstein died by suicide.

Former correction officer Tova Noel testified she was not the orange figure seen moving up the stairs near Jeffrey Epstein's cell on the night before his death, adding to questions surrounding the jail footage.

Tova Noel, a former correction officer who had previously said that she was the last person to see Jeffrey Epstein alive, has denied that she was the orange shape spotted moving up the stairs of Epstein's tier, further clouding the mystery of what happened that night. During a closed-door deposition with the House Oversight Committee, Noel testified under oath that she was not present on the stairs at that time, never carried anything orange, and did not issue orange garments to any inmates. The footage near Epstein's cell showed an orange-colored figure moving up a staircase at approximately 10:39 pm on August 9, 2019, just the day before Epstein was declared dead. "To be very honest, I don't know what it is, who it is, because I never went back to the tier, and I was never carrying anything orange at all, and I never issued anything orange to anyone in the SHU — not just only Epstein, just anyone," said Noel. Tova Noel was involved in tempering prison footage Tova Noel was initially charged with falsifying records to cover up missed 30-minute inmate checks. She has denied having any involvement in Epstein's death and blamed some of the problems that came to light following the death of Epstein on the "dysfunctional culture" at Manhattan's Metropolitan Correctional Centre. The Department of Justice dropped charges against her and other guards after they completed community service. Tova Noel was the last person to have direct interaction with Epstein, during an inmate count around 10:00 pm, who was discovered dead on the next morning at 6.30. Also Read: Why Mexican teachers are protesting ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener "My responsibility to conduct counts and rounds was improperly executed because of severe understaffing, a lack of adequate training, inadequate communication between management and frontline correctional officers, and other systemic failures," said Noel. Noel testified that Epstein received unusual privileges at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre (MCC). This included access to extra bed linens, medications, and a CPAP machine. When asked if she had any reason to believe Epstein did not die by suicide, Noel said, “No.” What was the orange object? The investigators have previously claimed that the orange object might have been someone carrying inmate clothing upstairs. While video forensic analysts cited by CBS News dispute this claim, they say that the figure's movement looks like an individual in orange clothing moving up the stairs. The two security cameras outside his cell malfunctioned according to official accounts. Despite this ongoing scrutiny, the ruling remains that Epstein died by suicide.

Former correction officer Tova Noel testified she was not the orange figure seen moving up the stairs near Jeffrey Epstein's cell on the night before his death, adding to questions surrounding the jail footage.

Who is Tova Noel? Former Epstein guard denies being orange figure seen on staircase

Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Justice Department, was the official responsible for overseeing the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, according to newly released congressional testimony. The remarks were made during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee last month, transcripts of which were made public on Thursday (Jun 4).<h2>What did Bondi say?</h2>During the questioning, Bondi repeatedly sought to distance herself from the Justice Department's handling of the highly sensitive Epstein records, a matter that has generated controversy throughout Trump's second term.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-strikes-again-attacks-another-journalist-with-bizarre-comment-hatred-in-her-eyes-1780554898613">Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes'</a>"He was in charge of the process and the entire release of the Epstein files," Bondi told lawmakers when asked about the department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. According to her testimony, the Justice Department has already released roughly three million documents, while another three million records remain under review or unreleased.Her comments place Blanche at the centre of one of the Trump administration's most politically charged controversies just as he prepares for what is expected to be a difficult Senate confirmation process. Democrats have already pointed to Bondi's testimony as evidence that Blanche should personally explain his role in the handling of the Epstein records.<h2>Is DoJ withholding Epstein files?</h2>Bondi insisted the department was not withholding material, arguing that the remaining files largely consist of duplicates or documents protected by legal privilege.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-cocaine-was-it-hunter-biden-sarcastic-response-to-white-house-narcotics-accusation-goes-viral-i-d-never-forget-my-drugs-joe-biden-west-wing-1780562403574">Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs'</a>Bondi also addressed criticism over her widely discussed 2025 television interview, in which she claimed the alleged Epstein "client list" was sitting on her desk. The statement fuelled speculation that explosive new disclosures were imminent. However, she later clarified that she had been referring to the broader Epstein case file and not to any specific client list. During her testimony, Bondi again insisted her comments had been misunderstood.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, placing Trump's DOJ nominee at the centre of a growing controversy. Here's all you need to know.

Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Justice Department, was the official responsible for overseeing the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, according to newly released congressional testimony. The remarks were made during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee last month, transcripts of which were made public on Thursday (Jun 4). What did Bondi say? During the questioning, Bondi repeatedly sought to distance herself from the Justice Department's handling of the highly sensitive Epstein records, a matter that has generated controversy throughout Trump's second term. Also read | Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes' "He was in charge of the process and the entire release of the Epstein files," Bondi told lawmakers when asked about the department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. According to her testimony, the Justice Department has already released roughly three million documents, while another three million records remain under review or unreleased. Her comments place Blanche at the centre of one of the Trump administration's most politically charged controversies just as he prepares for what is expected to be a difficult Senate confirmation process. Democrats have already pointed to Bondi's testimony as evidence that Blanche should personally explain his role in the handling of the Epstein records. Is DoJ withholding Epstein files? Bondi insisted the department was not withholding material, arguing that the remaining files largely consist of duplicates or documents protected by legal privilege. Also read | Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs' Bondi also addressed criticism over her widely discussed 2025 television interview, in which she claimed the alleged Epstein "client list" was sitting on her desk. The statement fuelled speculation that explosive new disclosures were imminent. However, she later clarified that she had been referring to the broader Epstein case file and not to any specific client list. During her testimony, Bondi again insisted her comments had been misunderstood.

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, placing Trump's DOJ nominee at the centre of a growing controversy. Here's all you need to know.

'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release

Microsoft founder Bill Gates has been working to clean up his reputation, as a report suggests that he has stylists working on his outfits before he wears them. The idea is to resemble beloved children's show host Mister Rogers (a character in an educational children's television series hosted by Fred Rogers), according to the Wall Street Journal. Microsoft employees told the outlet that his clothes are tested on a custom lookalike mannequin. His stylists want him to look smart, calm and approachable. WSJ reported that stylists keep a selection of neutral colored crew and V-neck sweaters, button-down shirts, slacks and extra glasses at an off-site building. His wardrobe is picked from these choices every week. The final outfits are approved by a senior staff.<h2>Bill Gates and his name in the Epstein Files - Report claims he admitted to affairs with two Russian women</h2>This comes after Bill Gates was named in the Epstein Files released in January this year. The documents by the Department of Justice (DOJ) consist of an email written by Epstein to himself, in which he mentioned that Gates had an affair with Russian girls and contracted a sexually transmitted disease. He reportedly planned to secretly give his then-wife, Melinda Gates, antibiotics. The billionaire has rubbished all these reports. However, WSJ reported that the 70-year-old confessed to having two affairs with Russian women mentioned in the Epstein Files at a private town hall meeting with employees of the Gates Foundation. This gathering is internally referred to as "BG Unplugged", and his admission left everyone shocked. WSJ further claims in the report that his divorce files allege that he had at least 20 affairs.<h2>Bill Gates talked to Gates Foundation staff about Epstein Files controversy</h2>He further told the staff that his relationship with Epstein was a mistake and everything that erupted following the release of the files was the "opposite of the values of the foundation". The report further states that at another meeting of the Gates Foundation, held with Mark Suzman, who took over as the foundation's CEO in 2020, people were left crying over the revelations linked to Bill Gates, who was not present at this gathering. Those who were present and others who know about the meeting told WSJ that Suzman admitted he felt "somewhat sullied" by having the foundation linked with Epstein.&nbsp;

Bill Gates reportedly admitted to having affairs with two Russian women mentioned in the Epstein Files at a Gates Foundation town hall. His divorce proceedings accused him of having over 20 affairs. Meanwhile, his team is working to clean up his image.

Microsoft founder Bill Gates has been working to clean up his reputation, as a report suggests that he has stylists working on his outfits before he wears them. The idea is to resemble beloved children's show host Mister Rogers (a character in an educational children's television series hosted by Fred Rogers), according to the Wall Street Journal. Microsoft employees told the outlet that his clothes are tested on a custom lookalike mannequin. His stylists want him to look smart, calm and approachable. WSJ reported that stylists keep a selection of neutral colored crew and V-neck sweaters, button-down shirts, slacks and extra glasses at an off-site building. His wardrobe is picked from these choices every week. The final outfits are approved by a senior staff. Bill Gates and his name in the Epstein Files - Report claims he admitted to affairs with two Russian women This comes after Bill Gates was named in the Epstein Files released in January this year. The documents by the Department of Justice (DOJ) consist of an email written by Epstein to himself, in which he mentioned that Gates had an affair with Russian girls and contracted a sexually transmitted disease. He reportedly planned to secretly give his then-wife, Melinda Gates, antibiotics. The billionaire has rubbished all these reports. However, WSJ reported that the 70-year-old confessed to having two affairs with Russian women mentioned in the Epstein Files at a private town hall meeting with employees of the Gates Foundation. This gathering is internally referred to as "BG Unplugged", and his admission left everyone shocked. WSJ further claims in the report that his divorce files allege that he had at least 20 affairs. Bill Gates talked to Gates Foundation staff about Epstein Files controversy He further told the staff that his relationship with Epstein was a mistake and everything that erupted following the release of the files was the "opposite of the values of the foundation". The report further states that at another meeting of the Gates Foundation, held with Mark Suzman, who took over as the foundation's CEO in 2020, people were left crying over the revelations linked to Bill Gates, who was not present at this gathering. Those who were present and others who know about the meeting told WSJ that Suzman admitted he felt "somewhat sullied" by having the foundation linked with Epstein.

Bill Gates reportedly admitted to having affairs with two Russian women mentioned in the Epstein Files at a Gates Foundation town hall. His divorce proceedings accused him of having over 20 affairs. Meanwhile, his team is working to clean up his image.

After ties with Epstein, it is revealed Bill Gates was accused of over 20 affairs in divorce filings: Report

A tense exchange unfolded as Pam Bondi faced tough questions over the handling and release of the Epstein files. Defending the Trump administration's actions, Bondi insisted that full transparency was maintained throughout the process and pointed to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's oversight. However, she declined to comment on Donald Trump's specific role, drawing further scrutiny. 


Epstein Files: Pam Bondi Refuses To Answer Questions On Trump & Epstein

A tense exchange unfolded as Pam Bondi faced tough questions over the handling and release of the Epstein files. Defending the Trump administration's actions, Bondi insisted that full transparency was maintained throughout the process and pointed to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's oversight. However, she declined to comment on Donald Trump's specific role, drawing further scrutiny. 

Epstein Files: Pam Bondi Defends Transparency, Declines Questions on Trump's Involvement

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi defended her oversight of the Jeffrey Epstein document release during a closed-door congressional interview on Friday. Bondi, who was dismissed by President Donald Trump in early April, maintained that the Justice Department acted with transparency while noting that she delegated the specific review process to her then-deputy, Todd Blanche.


Epstein Files: Bondi Says Full Transparency Was Maintained During Files' Release

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi will appear before the House Oversight Committee almost four months after releasing millions of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. She will be questioned behind closed doors by bipartisan lawmakers and professional investigative staff from the House Oversight Committee. As Bondi arrived at Capitol Hill on Friday morning, she made no comments to reporters while gathering, Epstein survivors yelled, "tell the truth". The development comes as Pam Bondi disclosed that she was suffering from thyroid cancer.The key aspects of the appearance is the its not a formal deposition but a transcribed interview, an arrangement criticised by the democrats who argue it violates the spirit of the subpoena. Oversight Chairman James Comer downgraded the terms after Bondi resigned as Attorney General in April 2026.&nbsp;Attorney General Pam Bondi had been under fire for her handling of the release of the Epstein files, and members of Congress of both parties have said that under her tenure, the DOJ failed to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. About 3 million pages of heavily redacted documents were published without any clarification, which is less than half of the available documents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-refiles-wsj-defamation-lawsuit-jeffrey-epstein-1779968984852">Trump revives explosive $10 billion lawsuit against WSJ over Epstein story</a>“She violated a congressional subpoena demanding the files, and she repeatedly, over her entire term of service as the AG, engaged in manufactured lies to the American people over the Epstein case. In addition to that, based on what I’ve seen in the unredacted files, there are dozens of potentially prosecutable crimes and cases in the Epstein files, and they have not pursued a single investigation,” said Rep Melanie Stansbury.&nbsp;Bondi and Attorney General Todd Blanche met the House Oversight Committee in March, but Democrats walked out, accusing Pam Bondi of sidestepping her responsibility. Bondi was to be deposed as per the subpoena, but she resigned, following which the DOJ said that she no longer needed to testify.&nbsp;But now, as the format is changed, this setup allows Bondi to refuse to answer certain questions without a formal legal justification. She will be accompanied by Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon and Deputy Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Guynn during the testimony to "to assist the Committee in understanding the Department's role in implementing and complying with the Epstein Files Transparency Act during her tenure."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Oversight Committee for closed-door questioning over her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and alleged failures to comply with transparency demands.

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi will appear before the House Oversight Committee almost four months after releasing millions of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. She will be questioned behind closed doors by bipartisan lawmakers and professional investigative staff from the House Oversight Committee. As Bondi arrived at Capitol Hill on Friday morning, she made no comments to reporters while gathering, Epstein survivors yelled, "tell the truth". The development comes as Pam Bondi disclosed that she was suffering from thyroid cancer. The key aspects of the appearance is the its not a formal deposition but a transcribed interview, an arrangement criticised by the democrats who argue it violates the spirit of the subpoena. Oversight Chairman James Comer downgraded the terms after Bondi resigned as Attorney General in April 2026. Attorney General Pam Bondi had been under fire for her handling of the release of the Epstein files, and members of Congress of both parties have said that under her tenure, the DOJ failed to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. About 3 million pages of heavily redacted documents were published without any clarification, which is less than half of the available documents. Also Read: Trump revives explosive $10 billion lawsuit against WSJ over Epstein story “She violated a congressional subpoena demanding the files, and she repeatedly, over her entire term of service as the AG, engaged in manufactured lies to the American people over the Epstein case. In addition to that, based on what I’ve seen in the unredacted files, there are dozens of potentially prosecutable crimes and cases in the Epstein files, and they have not pursued a single investigation,” said Rep Melanie Stansbury. Bondi and Attorney General Todd Blanche met the House Oversight Committee in March, but Democrats walked out, accusing Pam Bondi of sidestepping her responsibility. Bondi was to be deposed as per the subpoena, but she resigned, following which the DOJ said that she no longer needed to testify. But now, as the format is changed, this setup allows Bondi to refuse to answer certain questions without a formal legal justification. She will be accompanied by Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon and Deputy Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Guynn during the testimony to "to assist the Committee in understanding the Department's role in implementing and complying with the Epstein Files Transparency Act during her tenure."

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Oversight Committee for closed-door questioning over her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and alleged failures to comply with transparency demands.

House Oversight Committee questions Pam Bondi over Epstein document release

A court has released a purported suicide note linked to financier Jeffrey Epstein, reigniting scrutiny around his 2019 jail death. The document’s release adds fresh attention to ongoing debates, investigations, and conspiracy theories surrounding the case. Authorities and legal experts continue to examine the authenticity and implications of the files as part of broader Epstein-related disclosures.

Epstein Files: Court Releases Purported Epstein Suicide Note

A US judge on Wednesday (May 6) released a purported suicide note allegedly written by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein weeks before he died in a New York jail cell. According to Epstein’s former cellmate, the handwritten note was discovered inside a book after an earlier alleged suicide attempt by the disgraced financier, weeks before his death in August 2019. "They investigated me for months -- Found NOTHING!!!" the note states on lined paper. "It is a treat to be able to choose one's time to say goodbye."&nbsp;The message ends with the words, “Watcha want me to do -- Bust out cryin!! No fun -- NOT WORTH IT!!” The letter had remained sealed for years as part of the cellmate’s criminal case. However, Judge Kenneth Karas of the US District Court for the Southern District of New York ordered its release following a request by The New York Times. Although the authenticity of the note has not been officially verified, its publication comes amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s death while he awaited trial on sex trafficking charges.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-pathological-liar-democrats-accuse-howard-lutnick-of-egregious-cover-up-in-epstein-investigation-1778110524766">'Pathological liar': Democrats accuse Howard Lutnick of ‘egregious cover-up’ in Epstein investigation</a>&nbsp;Authorities ruled Epstein’s death a suicide, but continued controversy over jail security failures and missing surveillance footage has fueled skepticism about the official findings. Epstein was first found injured in his jail cell in late July 2019 in what officials described as a failed suicide attempt.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fifa-world-cup-rio-de-janeiro-streets-turn-into-an-open-air-mural-show-1778089072148/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/fifa-world-cup-rio-de-janeiro-streets-turn-into-an-open-air-mural-show-1778089072148/embed</a>&nbsp;Investigators believe the note was written before that incident and hidden inside a graphic novel. The Epstein case continues to stir political debate in both the United States and Britain, especially as more documents connected to the investigation into his life and associates continue to emerge. Jeffrey Epstein, 66, was arrested in July 2019 on multiple sex-trafficking charges linked to alleged incidents between 2002 and 2005 involving the sexual abuse of girls as young as 14.

A US judge released a purported Jeffrey Epstein suicide note, reigniting debate over the convicted financier’s controversial 2019 jail death

A US judge on Wednesday (May 6) released a purported suicide note allegedly written by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein weeks before he died in a New York jail cell. According to Epstein’s former cellmate, the handwritten note was discovered inside a book after an earlier alleged suicide attempt by the disgraced financier, weeks before his death in August 2019. "They investigated me for months -- Found NOTHING!!!" the note states on lined paper. "It is a treat to be able to choose one's time to say goodbye." The message ends with the words, “Watcha want me to do -- Bust out cryin!! No fun -- NOT WORTH IT!!” The letter had remained sealed for years as part of the cellmate’s criminal case. However, Judge Kenneth Karas of the US District Court for the Southern District of New York ordered its release following a request by The New York Times. Although the authenticity of the note has not been officially verified, its publication comes amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s death while he awaited trial on sex trafficking charges. Also Read: 'Pathological liar': Democrats accuse Howard Lutnick of ‘egregious cover-up’ in Epstein investigation Authorities ruled Epstein’s death a suicide, but continued controversy over jail security failures and missing surveillance footage has fueled skepticism about the official findings. Epstein was first found injured in his jail cell in late July 2019 in what officials described as a failed suicide attempt. https://www.wionews.com/videos/fifa-world-cup-rio-de-janeiro-streets-turn-into-an-open-air-mural-show-1778089072148/embed Investigators believe the note was written before that incident and hidden inside a graphic novel. The Epstein case continues to stir political debate in both the United States and Britain, especially as more documents connected to the investigation into his life and associates continue to emerge. Jeffrey Epstein, 66, was arrested in July 2019 on multiple sex-trafficking charges linked to alleged incidents between 2002 and 2005 involving the sexual abuse of girls as young as 14.

US judge releases alleged Jeffrey Epstein suicide note years after it was sealed, reviving questions surrounding his 2019 jail death

'Found Nothing': US judge releases alleged Jeffrey Epstein's suicide note

US media outlet The New York Times has filed a petition to a federal court to release a long-sealed suicide note purportedly written by Jeffrey Epstein. The document was reportedly hidden for more than seven years. It was first discovered by Epstein's cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione in July 2019, one month before Epstein’s death.&nbsp;<h2>What does the suicide note contain?</h2>&nbsp;The note was reportedly written on yellow legal pad paper and tucked inside a graphic novel in their shared cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre. It was never revealed by the investigator as part of the probe into Epstein's death. The note became the basis of the criminal case of Nicholas Tartaglione, and a Federal judge later sealed the note as part of the attorney-client privilege in Tartaglione's unrelated case.&nbsp;According to Epstein's cellmate, the note had contained the phrase "time to say goodbye" and a message stating that investigators had "found nothing", later stating: “What do you want me to do, bust out crying? Time to say goodbye.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidents-war-powers-act-trump-iran-congress-1777704648963">From Nixon to Trump: How US presidents have sidestepped Congress on war powers</a><h2>Why has this become relevant now?</h2>Tartaglione, a former police officer then serving four life sentences, said he found the note in federal prison in California, when Epstein was moved to a different part of the Metropolitan Correctional Centre for suicide watch. According to jail records from July 23, 2019, when Epstein was found on the floor with red marks and bruising on his neck, he initially told guards that Tartaglione had tried to kill him. Another important piece of the puzzle was in the DOJ documents, a two-page "Chronology" found within the 3.5 million records recently disclosed by the Department of Justice. The document claims that NT (Nicholas Tartaglione) found the note somewhere between July 23 and July 27, 2019, after guards had thoroughly searched the cells. Surprisingly, DOJ officials, as reported by the NYT, claimed that they had not seen the note. The note has now become a matter of significant public record.&nbsp;"My lawyers at the time wanted to make sure, you know, I didn’t write it,” Tartaglione said in a July 2025 podcast interview. A guard said Tartaglione was not permitted to go to his cell to retrieve the note. Tartaglione’s lawyer, Bruce Barket, told his client to give it to the next lawyer who visited him. That second lawyer, John Wieder, and Barket tried to authenticate the note. However its unclear how they authenticated the note.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The New York Times has petitioned a federal court to unseal Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged suicide note. Here’s what the note reportedly contains and why it matters now.

US media outlet The New York Times has filed a petition to a federal court to release a long-sealed suicide note purportedly written by Jeffrey Epstein. The document was reportedly hidden for more than seven years. It was first discovered by Epstein's cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione in July 2019, one month before Epstein’s death. What does the suicide note contain? The note was reportedly written on yellow legal pad paper and tucked inside a graphic novel in their shared cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre. It was never revealed by the investigator as part of the probe into Epstein's death. The note became the basis of the criminal case of Nicholas Tartaglione, and a Federal judge later sealed the note as part of the attorney-client privilege in Tartaglione's unrelated case. According to Epstein's cellmate, the note had contained the phrase "time to say goodbye" and a message stating that investigators had "found nothing", later stating: “What do you want me to do, bust out crying? Time to say goodbye.” Also Read: From Nixon to Trump: How US presidents have sidestepped Congress on war powers Why has this become relevant now? Tartaglione, a former police officer then serving four life sentences, said he found the note in federal prison in California, when Epstein was moved to a different part of the Metropolitan Correctional Centre for suicide watch. According to jail records from July 23, 2019, when Epstein was found on the floor with red marks and bruising on his neck, he initially told guards that Tartaglione had tried to kill him. Another important piece of the puzzle was in the DOJ documents, a two-page "Chronology" found within the 3.5 million records recently disclosed by the Department of Justice. The document claims that NT (Nicholas Tartaglione) found the note somewhere between July 23 and July 27, 2019, after guards had thoroughly searched the cells. Surprisingly, DOJ officials, as reported by the NYT, claimed that they had not seen the note. The note has now become a matter of significant public record. "My lawyers at the time wanted to make sure, you know, I didn’t write it,” Tartaglione said in a July 2025 podcast interview. A guard said Tartaglione was not permitted to go to his cell to retrieve the note. Tartaglione’s lawyer, Bruce Barket, told his client to give it to the next lawyer who visited him. That second lawyer, John Wieder, and Barket tried to authenticate the note. However its unclear how they authenticated the note.

The New York Times has petitioned a federal court to unseal Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged suicide note. Here’s what the note reportedly contains and why it matters now.

Epstein’s sealed suicide note: What it says and why it’s resurfacing now

Authorities in New Mexico are investigating disturbing allegations linked to Jeffrey Epstein’s secluded Zorro Ranch compound, where several women have claimed they were flown in and abused by Epstein and his associates. Investigators are now trying to determine how many local victims may have been involved. 


Epstein Files: What Happened at Jeffrey Epstein's New Mexico Ranch? 

The convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence, has sent a mystery USB drive to the Department of Justice, almost a week after First Lady Melania Trump’s surprise statement denying personal ties to Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. The drive was sent via FedEx on April 16 to the US Attorney Jay Clayton in support of her appeal against the 20-year sentence, reported The Swamp, The Daily Beast Substack. The delivery has sparked intense public and political speculation due to its timing and the secretive nature of its contents.<h2>What was on the USB Drive?</h2>The specific content of the drive has not been made public. Though the Federal prosecutor has provided a summary of the content to the court, in a letter, he reported that Maxwell claimed to have presented 50 new exhibits containing "substantial new evidence" to argue that her trial was unfair, but Clayton suggested that the package had only 33. Clayton described her claims as “duplicative and meritless” but requested time till June 5 to respond.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palantir-manifesto-ai-militarisation-technofascism-debate-1776774249138">Palantir's manifesto calls for AI militarisation, critics call it dystopian and 'technofascism’</a><h2>Why is it mysterious, and is Maxwell getting remission?</h2>The content of the drive and its timing following the surprising denial by the First Lady, Melania Trump, about any personal ties with the Maxwell and Epstein have driven speculation about coordination and quid pro quo. Notably, there were several mentions of Melania Trump in the Epstein documents revealed by the DOJ in subsequent batches in late 2025 and early 2026, and there was political controversy over redactions and withheld names.Maxwell has long argued that the jurors in her trial failed to disclose their own history of sexual abuse during jury selection, which compromised their objectivity. While the 2007 Non Prosecution Agreement made by Jeffrey Epstein with Florida prosecutors should have given her blanket immunity. She also claims that witnesses lied under oath in the Giuffre vs Maxwell civil lawsuit trial, which became the basis of the criminal trial against Maxwell.&nbsp;In a recent Politico report, Maxwell’s attorney, David Oscar Markus, said there was "a good chance and for good reason that (Maxwell) would get a pardon' from President Donald Trump."

A mystery USB drive sent by Ghislaine Maxwell to US authorities is fueling speculation about new evidence, political connections, and even a possible pardon. Here’s what we know so far about the latest twist in the Epstein case.

The convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence, has sent a mystery USB drive to the Department of Justice, almost a week after First Lady Melania Trump’s surprise statement denying personal ties to Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. The drive was sent via FedEx on April 16 to the US Attorney Jay Clayton in support of her appeal against the 20-year sentence, reported The Swamp, The Daily Beast Substack. The delivery has sparked intense public and political speculation due to its timing and the secretive nature of its contents. What was on the USB Drive? The specific content of the drive has not been made public. Though the Federal prosecutor has provided a summary of the content to the court, in a letter, he reported that Maxwell claimed to have presented 50 new exhibits containing "substantial new evidence" to argue that her trial was unfair, but Clayton suggested that the package had only 33. Clayton described her claims as “duplicative and meritless” but requested time till June 5 to respond. Also Read: Palantir's manifesto calls for AI militarisation, critics call it dystopian and 'technofascism’ Why is it mysterious, and is Maxwell getting remission? The content of the drive and its timing following the surprising denial by the First Lady, Melania Trump, about any personal ties with the Maxwell and Epstein have driven speculation about coordination and quid pro quo. Notably, there were several mentions of Melania Trump in the Epstein documents revealed by the DOJ in subsequent batches in late 2025 and early 2026, and there was political controversy over redactions and withheld names. Maxwell has long argued that the jurors in her trial failed to disclose their own history of sexual abuse during jury selection, which compromised their objectivity. While the 2007 Non Prosecution Agreement made by Jeffrey Epstein with Florida prosecutors should have given her blanket immunity. She also claims that witnesses lied under oath in the Giuffre vs Maxwell civil lawsuit trial, which became the basis of the criminal trial against Maxwell. In a recent Politico report, Maxwell’s attorney, David Oscar Markus, said there was "a good chance and for good reason that (Maxwell) would get a pardon' from President Donald Trump."

A mystery USB drive sent by Ghislaine Maxwell to US authorities is fueling speculation about new evidence, political connections, and even a possible pardon. Here’s what we know so far about the latest twist in the Epstein case.

Ghislaine Maxwell's mysterious USB drive to DOJ- Is commutation next?

Melania Trump has issued a rare public statement firmly denying any links to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. She clarified she never visited Epstein’s island, flew on his plane, or had any meaningful relationship with him. The statement also pushed back against online misinformation. 


Epstein Files: 2002 Photo Behind Melania Trump’s Address On Epstein & Maxwell |

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing calls to resign over allegedly misleading the British Parliament when he told them "full due process" had been followed in the security vetting of Peter Mandelson, who was removed as US ambassador over revelations of his links to late convicted paedophile and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Heads rolled on Friday (Apr 17), with the Foreign Office's top civil servant Olly Robbins sacked by Starmer. Robbins is leaving his post after his department did not inform Starmer that Mandelson had failed security vetting for the role of envoy to the US. Starmer and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper "lost confidence" in Robbins, the BBC said in a report.<h2>‘I wasn’t told': Starmer's Epstein - Mandelson scandal moment is getting worse</h2>The row erupted after a Guardian investigation reported that Mandelson's high-level security clearance did not happen before he assumed US envoy role. In the past few days, Starmer told MPs several times that the clearance did happen under due process.On Friday, Starmer appeared to go on the defensive, saying: "That I wasn’t told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering. That I wasn’t told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I’m absolutely furious about that."Starmer said he would go to Parliament on Monday "to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so Parliament has the full picture."Starmer had earlier described Mandelson’s actions as a "litany of deceit" and a betrayal of the country, while insisting he had no plans to resign.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-keir-starmer-under-fire-resignation-calls-grow-amid-security-row-1776422657133/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-keir-starmer-under-fire-resignation-calls-grow-amid-security-row-1776422657133/embed</a><h2>What is the Peter Mandelson scandal all about?</h2>The row combines three issues: Mandelson’s links to Epstein, the security clearance process for his appointment as US envoy, and whether Starmer and his government misled Parliament.Security officials denied Mandelson high-level clearance in January 2025, but he was appointed as US envoy anyway. The Foreign Office had, in fact, overruled the lack of vetting using rare powers.Mandelson’s links to the sex trafficker became clear after the US Justice Department revealed their correspondence and released photos as part of the Epstein files tranches. Worse still, it emerged that Mandelson possibly shared sensitive government information with Epstein and had financial and personal connections with him. Mandelson was later removed as US ambassador and arrested, though not charged, over alleged misconduct in public office.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/peter-mandelson-to-prince-andrew-donald-turmp-high-profile-names-who-lost-their-positions-over-jeffrey-epstein-files-1770206681627">Peter Mandelson to Prince Andrew: High-profile names who lost their positions over Epstein Files</a><h2>Political slugfest and blame game over Peter Mandelson security clearance</h2>The opposition Conservatives accused Starmer of misleading MPs and showing poor judgement, demanding that he resign if it is proven that he knowingly misled Parliament.Labour government officials and Downing Street, meanwhile, said the responsibility for vetting Mandelson lies with the Foreign Office rather than Starmer personally.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peter-mandelson-ex-british-envoy-to-us-to-step-down-from-house-of-lords-over-ties-with-jeffrey-epstein-1770132160233">Peter Mandelson, ex-British envoy to US, resigns from House of Lords over ties with Jeffrey Epstein</a><h2>It is not over for Mandelson yet</h2>Mandelson, who was essentially sacked both from the US envoy role and Labour Party membership, is still being investigated by UK police over alleged misconduct related to sharing information with Epstein. He had resigned from the House of Lords.For his part, Mandelson said he regrets his association with Epstein, describing the late financier as a deceptive and manipulative individual, but denied any wrongdoing. Neither Mandelson nor the government has publicly explained why he failed vetting, as those details remain classified.The issue touches on national security, government integrity, leadership credibility, and trust in British institutions.

UK PM Keir Starmer is facing calls to quit after claims that he misled Parliament over Peter Mandelson’s security vetting. Mandelson's links to Jeffrey Epstein are continuing to haunt Starmer, who is now saying ‘I was not told’, and has sacked a top civil servant

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing calls to resign over allegedly misleading the British Parliament when he told them "full due process" had been followed in the security vetting of Peter Mandelson, who was removed as US ambassador over revelations of his links to late convicted paedophile and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Heads rolled on Friday (Apr 17), with the Foreign Office's top civil servant Olly Robbins sacked by Starmer. Robbins is leaving his post after his department did not inform Starmer that Mandelson had failed security vetting for the role of envoy to the US. Starmer and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper "lost confidence" in Robbins, the BBC said in a report. ‘I wasn’t told': Starmer's Epstein - Mandelson scandal moment is getting worse The row erupted after a Guardian investigation reported that Mandelson's high-level security clearance did not happen before he assumed US envoy role. In the past few days, Starmer told MPs several times that the clearance did happen under due process. On Friday, Starmer appeared to go on the defensive, saying: "That I wasn’t told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting when he was appointed is staggering. That I wasn’t told that he had failed security vetting when I was telling Parliament that due process had been followed is unforgivable. Not only was I not told, no minister was told, and I’m absolutely furious about that." Starmer said he would go to Parliament on Monday "to set out all the relevant facts in true transparency, so Parliament has the full picture." Starmer had earlier described Mandelson’s actions as a "litany of deceit" and a betrayal of the country, while insisting he had no plans to resign. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-keir-starmer-under-fire-resignation-calls-grow-amid-security-row-1776422657133/embed What is the Peter Mandelson scandal all about? The row combines three issues: Mandelson’s links to Epstein, the security clearance process for his appointment as US envoy, and whether Starmer and his government misled Parliament. Security officials denied Mandelson high-level clearance in January 2025, but he was appointed as US envoy anyway. The Foreign Office had, in fact, overruled the lack of vetting using rare powers. Mandelson’s links to the sex trafficker became clear after the US Justice Department revealed their correspondence and released photos as part of the Epstein files tranches. Worse still, it emerged that Mandelson possibly shared sensitive government information with Epstein and had financial and personal connections with him. Mandelson was later removed as US ambassador and arrested, though not charged, over alleged misconduct in public office. Also read: Peter Mandelson to Prince Andrew: High-profile names who lost their positions over Epstein Files Political slugfest and blame game over Peter Mandelson security clearance The opposition Conservatives accused Starmer of misleading MPs and showing poor judgement, demanding that he resign if it is proven that he knowingly misled Parliament. Labour government officials and Downing Street, meanwhile, said the responsibility for vetting Mandelson lies with the Foreign Office rather than Starmer personally. Also read: Peter Mandelson, ex-British envoy to US, resigns from House of Lords over ties with Jeffrey Epstein It is not over for Mandelson yet Mandelson, who was essentially sacked both from the US envoy role and Labour Party membership, is still being investigated by UK police over alleged misconduct related to sharing information with Epstein. He had resigned from the House of Lords. For his part, Mandelson said he regrets his association with Epstein, describing the late financier as a deceptive and manipulative individual, but denied any wrongdoing. Neither Mandelson nor the government has publicly explained why he failed vetting, as those details remain classified. The issue touches on national security, government integrity, leadership credibility, and trust in British institutions.

UK PM Keir Starmer is facing calls to quit after claims that he misled Parliament over Peter Mandelson’s security vetting. Mandelson's links to Jeffrey Epstein are continuing to haunt Starmer, who is now saying ‘I was not told’, and has sacked a top civil servant

Epstein, Peter Mandelson and botched security clearance: UK PM Starmer sacks top Foreign Office official amid calls to resign

Juliette Bryant, a Jeffrey Epstein survivor, has hit out at US First Lady Melania Trump over her recent statement denying all ties to the sexual offender and paedophile. Slamming Melania's demand for survivors to testify under oath, Bryant, in a fiery video she posted on X, said "MANY VICTIMS WHO TESTIFIED HAVE DIED," as she called on the FLOTUS and her husband, US President Donald Trump, to testify instead. "IT’S YOUR TURN TO TESTIFY NOW…" she said. In her statement, Melania denied ever having a relationship with Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, disputed reports that Epstein had introduced her to Trump, called out what she described as fabricated images circulating on social media, and urged Congress to hold public hearings where Epstein's victims could testify under oath. "The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she said. &nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-survivors-accuse-melania-trump-of-shifting-the-burden-push-back-on-call-for-congressional-hearings-we-ve-done-our-part-1775873457843">Epstein survivors accuse Melania Trump of 'shifting the burden,' push back on call for congressional hearings: 'We've done our part'</a><h2>Bryant's message to Melania Trump</h2>In a video message, Bryant identified herself as an Epstein survivor and said, "You want girls to testify under oath, well here I am testifying that everything I said is true. Unfortunately, a lot of the girls who testified died."She then called on Melania to testify, saying, "Maybe it’s time that you and your husband testify too."Watch what she said here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">HELLO MELANIA TRUMP HERE I AM TESTIFYING UNDER OATH MANY VICTIMS WHO TESTIFIED HAVE DIED IT’S YOUR TURN TO TESTIFY NOW… <a href="https://t.co/xecj3OmKGr">pic.twitter.com/xecj3OmKGr</a>&mdash; EPSTEIN SURVIVOR - JULIETTE ROSE BRYANT🌈❤️⚔️ (@JulietteBryant) <a href="https://twitter.com/JulietteBryant/status/2042969886339559654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Did Epstein survivors actually die after testifying against the paedophile?</h2>At least two Epstein survivors have died after they gave testimony against Epstein. However, it is not known if their deaths and their testimonies are interlinked.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-macron-post-a-video-of-jeffrey-epstein-kissing-melania-trump-truth-behind-the-viral-clip-1775806317213">FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip</a>Virginia Giuffre, one of the most prominent Epstein survivors, died in April 2025, purportedly by suicide. Notably, in 2019, Guiffre in a statement on Twitter (now X), explicitly declared that she was "in no way, shape or form" suicidal. She said so while responding to a user's claim that the FBI might target her to protect well-connected figures.Another Epstein survivor, Carolyn Andriano, whose testimony proved crucial during the 2021 trial of Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell, died in May 2023 in a Florida hotel. Her death was ruled an accidental drug overdose.&nbsp;<h3>Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article. &nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;

Why is an Epstein survivor now directly challenging the Trumps? Juliette Bryant hit back at Melania Trump, saying victims have already testified—and now it’s time for her and Donald Trump to do the same. Watch video HERE

Juliette Bryant, a Jeffrey Epstein survivor, has hit out at US First Lady Melania Trump over her recent statement denying all ties to the sexual offender and paedophile. Slamming Melania's demand for survivors to testify under oath, Bryant, in a fiery video she posted on X, said "MANY VICTIMS WHO TESTIFIED HAVE DIED," as she called on the FLOTUS and her husband, US President Donald Trump, to testify instead. "IT’S YOUR TURN TO TESTIFY NOW…" she said. In her statement, Melania denied ever having a relationship with Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, disputed reports that Epstein had introduced her to Trump, called out what she described as fabricated images circulating on social media, and urged Congress to hold public hearings where Epstein's victims could testify under oath. "The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she said. Also read | Epstein survivors accuse Melania Trump of 'shifting the burden,' push back on call for congressional hearings: 'We've done our part' Bryant's message to Melania Trump In a video message, Bryant identified herself as an Epstein survivor and said, "You want girls to testify under oath, well here I am testifying that everything I said is true. Unfortunately, a lot of the girls who testified died." She then called on Melania to testify, saying, "Maybe it’s time that you and your husband testify too." Watch what she said here:

Why is an Epstein survivor now directly challenging the Trumps? Juliette Bryant hit back at Melania Trump, saying victims have already testified—and now it’s time for her and Donald Trump to do the same. Watch video HERE

Fact Check: 'MANY VICTIMS WHO TESTIFIED HAVE DIED'? Epstein survivor Juliette Bryant’s viral claim vs. Melania Trump | Watch

Melania Trump's decision to go public with a statement denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein appears to have caught her own husband off guard, or at least that's how US President Donald Trump is telling it. In an interview with the New York Times on Friday (Apr 10), Trump said he knew Melania was planning to make a statement but had no idea what it would contain. When asked if it bothered him, he said it didn't, because "she had a right to talk about it." He also made clear, more than once, that the statement wasn't his suggestion.<h2>Trying to get ahead of a bigger scandal?</h2>Soon after, Melania, in a statement, denied any link with sex offender, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The internet had exploded with conspiracy theories, with many suggesting that the Trumps and the White House might be trying to get ahead of a bigger scandal.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-trying-to-get-ahead-of-a-big-scandal-internet-erupts-with-conspiracy-theories-as-melania-trump-denies-ties-with-epstein-maxwell-1775810948861">White House trying to get ahead of a big scandal? Internet erupts with conspiracy theories as Melania Trump denies ties with Epstein, Maxwell</a>Political analyst Ahmed Baba speculated that something big may be "about to drop". On X, he wrote, "This was so random. To my knowledge, there was no notable discourse recently about Melania’s ties to Epstein. All eyes have been on the Iran war. What prompted this? Is something about to drop? Seems to me the First Lady just injected Epstein back into the news cycle unprompted."However, talking to the New York Times, Donald Trump kept insisting that he did not recommend that Melania address the Epstein Files. "I didn't recommend it," he told the Times. "But I said: If you want to do it, do it." He added that the two discussed it for roughly "two minutes", but didn't say when that conversation happened. He also acknowledged he wasn't sure he would have handled it the same way himself.<h2>She finds it very insulting</h2>In her statement, Melania denied ever having a relationship with Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, disputed reports that Epstein had introduced her to Trump, called out what she described as fabricated images circulating on social media, and urged Congress to hold public hearings where Epstein's victims could testify under oath. She took no questions afterwards.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-macron-post-a-video-of-jeffrey-epstein-kissing-melania-trump-truth-behind-the-viral-clip-1775806317213">FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip</a>Trump said that the statement, which came as a shock to the world, centres on her feelings about the long-circulating claim that Epstein played matchmaker between them. "She finds it very insulting," he said. Melania has maintained she first met Trump at a New York City party in 1998, two years before she says she ever encountered Epstein. Paolo Zampolli, Trump's special envoy and a former modelling agent who had business dealings with Epstein, has said he was the one who made the introduction, describing it in characteristically brief terms to the Daily Beast: "I said: 'Melania meet Donald, Donald meet Melania,' and then I left the table because I had 300 guests." The first Mar-a-Lago photograph of Trump, Melania, Epstein and Maxwell together dates to February 2000. Trump told the Times that Melania "did a good job" with her statement. He also insisted the renewed avalanche of Epstein coverage doesn't upset him. "I never get upset," he said, before adding: "I don't mind anything having to do with Epstein. The only thing I don't like is I waste a lot of time" on the subject.

Is Donald Trump distancing himself from Melania Trump’s Epstein statement? He says he didn’t recommend it and isn’t upset—calling it her decision entirely. All you need to know.

Melania Trump's decision to go public with a statement denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein appears to have caught her own husband off guard, or at least that's how US President Donald Trump is telling it. In an interview with the New York Times on Friday (Apr 10), Trump said he knew Melania was planning to make a statement but had no idea what it would contain. When asked if it bothered him, he said it didn't, because "she had a right to talk about it." He also made clear, more than once, that the statement wasn't his suggestion. Trying to get ahead of a bigger scandal? Soon after, Melania, in a statement, denied any link with sex offender, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The internet had exploded with conspiracy theories, with many suggesting that the Trumps and the White House might be trying to get ahead of a bigger scandal. Also read | White House trying to get ahead of a big scandal? Internet erupts with conspiracy theories as Melania Trump denies ties with Epstein, Maxwell Political analyst Ahmed Baba speculated that something big may be "about to drop". On X, he wrote, "This was so random. To my knowledge, there was no notable discourse recently about Melania’s ties to Epstein. All eyes have been on the Iran war. What prompted this? Is something about to drop? Seems to me the First Lady just injected Epstein back into the news cycle unprompted." However, talking to the New York Times, Donald Trump kept insisting that he did not recommend that Melania address the Epstein Files. "I didn't recommend it," he told the Times. "But I said: If you want to do it, do it." He added that the two discussed it for roughly "two minutes", but didn't say when that conversation happened. He also acknowledged he wasn't sure he would have handled it the same way himself. She finds it very insulting In her statement, Melania denied ever having a relationship with Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, disputed reports that Epstein had introduced her to Trump, called out what she described as fabricated images circulating on social media, and urged Congress to hold public hearings where Epstein's victims could testify under oath. She took no questions afterwards. Also read | FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip Trump said that the statement, which came as a shock to the world, centres on her feelings about the long-circulating claim that Epstein played matchmaker between them. "She finds it very insulting," he said. Melania has maintained she first met Trump at a New York City party in 1998, two years before she says she ever encountered Epstein. Paolo Zampolli, Trump's special envoy and a former modelling agent who had business dealings with Epstein, has said he was the one who made the introduction, describing it in characteristically brief terms to the Daily Beast: "I said: 'Melania meet Donald, Donald meet Melania,' and then I left the table because I had 300 guests." The first Mar-a-Lago photograph of Trump, Melania, Epstein and Maxwell together dates to February 2000. Trump told the Times that Melania "did a good job" with her statement. He also insisted the renewed avalanche of Epstein coverage doesn't upset him. "I never get upset," he said, before adding: "I don't mind anything having to do with Epstein. The only thing I don't like is I waste a lot of time" on the subject.

Is Donald Trump distancing himself from Melania Trump’s Epstein statement? He says he didn’t recommend it and isn’t upset—calling it her decision entirely. All you need to know.

'I never get upset': Trump says didn't know what Melania would say, insists he isn't bothered by the renewed scrutiny over Epstein files

More than a dozen survivors of sex offender, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's abuse have responded sharply to Melania Trump's surprise public statement this week, accusing the First Lady of deflecting responsibility onto the very people who have already paid the heaviest price. In a joint statement, thirteen survivors, along with the brother and sister of the late Virginia Giuffre, one of the most prominent Epstein accusers before her death, said that calling on Congress to hear from victims amounted to burden-shifting, not justice. "Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have already shown extraordinary courage by coming forward, filing reports, and giving testimony," the group said. "Asking more of them now is a deflection of responsibility not justice."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-wow-what-a-hot-piece-of-a-melania-trump-denies-epstein-and-maxwell-ties-but-these-emails-complicate-that-story-fact-check-1775783396467">'Wow, what a hot piece of a**': Melania Trump denies Epstein and Maxwell ties, but THESE emails complicate that story | FACT CHECK</a><h2>Melania denies ties to Epstein, Maxwell</h2>In a statement on Thursday (Apr 9), the First Lady unequivocally said that "the lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today." She noted that "fake images and statements" about her and Epstein had been spreading on social media for years. Melania also denied that Epstein had introduced her to Donald Trump and claimed that she met her husband two years before she ever encountered Epstein. Reports suggest that the two met independently in September 1998 at a New York Fashion Week party at the Kit Kat Club in Manhattan, hosted by Paolo Zampolli.She also stated she had never been on Epstein's plane, never visited his private island, did not know about his abuse of victims, and was never involved "in any capacity." On Maxwell, she said she had no relationship with her either. Calling on Congress to hold public hearings, she said, "give these victims their opportunity to testify under oath."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-macron-post-a-video-of-jeffrey-epstein-kissing-melania-trump-truth-behind-the-viral-clip-1775806317213">FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip</a><h2>Epstein survivors push back</h2>However, the FLOTUS's proposal landed badly with those she was ostensibly trying to support. The survivors' group said the First Lady was "shifting the burden onto survivors under politicised conditions that protect those with power", naming the Department of Justice, law enforcement, prosecutors, and the Trump administration, which they said has "still not fully complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act."They also directed criticism at Attorney General Pam Bondi, who this week declined to comply with a congressional subpoena to testify before the House oversight committee about the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein investigation and the release of his files. "It diverts attention from Pam Bondi, who must answer for withheld files and the exposure of survivors' identities," the statement said. "Those failures continue to put lives at risk while shielding enablers. Survivors have done their part. Now it's time for those in power to do theirs."&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article. &nbsp;

Why are Epstein survivors pushing back against Melania Trump? After FLOTUS Melania Trump denied links to Jeffrey Epstein, survivors say her call for testimony shifts the burden back onto victims.

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More than a dozen survivors of sex offender, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's abuse have responded sharply to Melania Trump's surprise public statement this week, accusing the First Lady of deflecting responsibility onto the very people who have already paid the heaviest price. In a joint statement, thirteen survivors, along with the brother and sister of the late Virginia Giuffre, one of the most prominent Epstein accusers before her death, said that calling on Congress to hear from victims amounted to burden-shifting, not justice. "Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have already shown extraordinary courage by coming forward, filing reports, and giving testimony," the group said. "Asking more of them now is a deflection of responsibility not justice." Also read | 'Wow, what a hot piece of a**': Melania Trump denies Epstein and Maxwell ties, but THESE emails complicate that story | FACT CHECK Melania denies ties to Epstein, Maxwell In a statement on Thursday (Apr 9), the First Lady unequivocally said that "the lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today." She noted that "fake images and statements" about her and Epstein had been spreading on social media for years. Melania also denied that Epstein had introduced her to Donald Trump and claimed that she met her husband two years before she ever encountered Epstein. Reports suggest that the two met independently in September 1998 at a New York Fashion Week party at the Kit Kat Club in Manhattan, hosted by Paolo Zampolli. She also stated she had never been on Epstein's plane, never visited his private island, did not know about his abuse of victims, and was never involved "in any capacity." On Maxwell, she said she had no relationship with her either. Calling on Congress to hold public hearings, she said, "give these victims their opportunity to testify under oath." Also read | FACT CHECK: Did Macron post a video of Jeffrey Epstein kissing Melania Trump? Truth behind the viral clip Epstein survivors push back However, the FLOTUS's proposal landed badly with those she was ostensibly trying to support. The survivors' group said the First Lady was "shifting the burden onto survivors under politicised conditions that protect those with power", naming the Department of Justice, law enforcement, prosecutors, and the Trump administration, which they said has "still not fully complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act." They also directed criticism at Attorney General Pam Bondi, who this week declined to comply with a congressional subpoena to testify before the House oversight committee about the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein investigation and the release of his files. "It diverts attention from Pam Bondi, who must answer for withheld files and the exposure of survivors' identities," the statement said. "Those failures continue to put lives at risk while shielding enablers. Survivors have done their part. Now it's time for those in power to do theirs." Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article.

Why are Epstein survivors pushing back against Melania Trump? After FLOTUS Melania Trump denied links to Jeffrey Epstein, survivors say her call for testimony shifts the burden back onto victims.Scroll down to read more. &nbsp;

Epstein survivors accuse Melania Trump of 'shifting the burden,' push back on call for congressional hearings: 'We've done our part'

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