The FBI on Wednesday denied a US media report claiming that its director, Kash Patel, was visiting Russia, insisting that he was attending an event at a university in Virginia. US news broadcaster MS Now reported that Patel had arrived in Russia for a scheduled meeting just weeks before the crucial US midterm elections. The report cited two people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;However, the FBI rejected the report in a post on X, saying, “Here's where Kash Patel actually is...Liberty U, doing a law enforcement appreciation event.” A video published on YouTube on Wednesday by an ABC affiliate showed Patel participating in a panel discussion at the Liberty University School of Law in Lynchburg, Virginia. The dispute comes amid renewed tensions over the war in Ukraine and President Donald Trump's approach to negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-blocks-trump-administration-sanctions-on-human-rights-groups-supporting-gaza-war-crimes-investigation-1792004124610">US judge blocks Trump administration sanctions on human rights groups supporting Gaza war crimes investigation</a>&nbsp;Trump recently said Putin wanted to reach a deal to end the war, while accusing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of resisting a compromise. Trump has repeatedly criticized Zelensky, a prominent pro-Western leader in Europe, and has even suggested that he should be replaced as president. At the same time, Trump has frequently refrained from criticizing Putin, a position that has sometimes put him at odds with members of his own Republican Party as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukraine.&nbsp;Last week, Trump angered European allies of Ukraine after news emerged of a deal to purchase heavily sanctioned Russian diesel to help reduce domestic fuel prices. The issue has drawn attention ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections. On Tuesday, 12 Republican and Democratic senators called on Trump to abandon the deal, describing it as a betrayal of Ukraine and warning that it could help finance Moscow's war effort. Speculation about a possible visit by Patel to Moscow has circulated since Politico reported in July that the FBI director was planning a trip to Russia, potentially in mid-October. The report cited people familiar with the plans.&nbsp;Last week, The Atlantic reported that a quiet effort was under way within the FBI to stop the trip, with two senior House Democrats also opposing the proposed visit. In August, CIA Director John Ratcliffe made an unusual visit to Moscow. US media reports suggested that the trip was intended, at least in part, to warn Russia against launching an attack on NATO.

The FBI has rejected a report that Kash Patel visited Russia, saying the director was attending an event at Liberty University in Virginia

The FBI on Wednesday denied a US media report claiming that its director, Kash Patel, was visiting Russia, insisting that he was attending an event at a university in Virginia. US news broadcaster MS Now reported that Patel had arrived in Russia for a scheduled meeting just weeks before the crucial US midterm elections. The report cited two people familiar with the matter. However, the FBI rejected the report in a post on X, saying, “Here's where Kash Patel actually is...Liberty U, doing a law enforcement appreciation event.” A video published on YouTube on Wednesday by an ABC affiliate showed Patel participating in a panel discussion at the Liberty University School of Law in Lynchburg, Virginia. The dispute comes amid renewed tensions over the war in Ukraine and President Donald Trump's approach to negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also Read: US judge blocks Trump administration sanctions on human rights groups supporting Gaza war crimes investigation Trump recently said Putin wanted to reach a deal to end the war, while accusing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of resisting a compromise. Trump has repeatedly criticized Zelensky, a prominent pro-Western leader in Europe, and has even suggested that he should be replaced as president. At the same time, Trump has frequently refrained from criticizing Putin, a position that has sometimes put him at odds with members of his own Republican Party as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukraine. Last week, Trump angered European allies of Ukraine after news emerged of a deal to purchase heavily sanctioned Russian diesel to help reduce domestic fuel prices. The issue has drawn attention ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections. On Tuesday, 12 Republican and Democratic senators called on Trump to abandon the deal, describing it as a betrayal of Ukraine and warning that it could help finance Moscow's war effort. Speculation about a possible visit by Patel to Moscow has circulated since Politico reported in July that the FBI director was planning a trip to Russia, potentially in mid-October. The report cited people familiar with the plans. Last week, The Atlantic reported that a quiet effort was under way within the FBI to stop the trip, with two senior House Democrats also opposing the proposed visit. In August, CIA Director John Ratcliffe made an unusual visit to Moscow. US media reports suggested that the trip was intended, at least in part, to warn Russia against launching an attack on NATO.

The FBI denies reports that Director Kash Patel is visiting Russia, saying he attended a law enforcement appreciation event in Virginia

FBI refutes media report claiming Kash Patel is in Russia for talks, says he is in Virginia

The FBI director has come under fire once again.&nbsp;This time, it is for an eligibility criterion that has been updated. But the change has triggered confusion and questions from both sides of the political aisle.&nbsp;The change concerns a crime, which has been removed from a long list of activities which make a person ineligible to enrol in the FBI. And that, is bestiality.&nbsp;Kash Patel has removed bestiality as an automatic disqualifier for candidates applying for a job with the FBI.&nbsp;Earlier, the agency disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore.&nbsp;The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers who grilled Patel on the matter during a hearing.&nbsp;The toughest questions came from Louisiana senator of the Red Camp, John Kennedy.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his typical style, Kennedy questioned what Patel meant by the term, 'victims of bestiality', further asking if the FBI director was referring to animals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;But, grinning at the remarks, Patel declined it was a reference to animals; rather, it was about individuals who have been convicted of the unnatural sexual crime.&nbsp;In his defence, the FBI director justified the decision on grounds that many people who are victims of human trafficking get forced to commit criminal and unnatural acts, and they should not be removed from the process of joining the FBI.&nbsp;However, Kennedy's grilling did not end here. The veteran Republican lawmaker went on to question why criminal activities were important to remove or re-adjust and why the FBI would even 'get into it.'&nbsp;Bestiality is the unnatural sexual act between a human and animal. Until now, it was an automatic disqualifier in the FBI enrolment process.&nbsp;However, with the changes introduced by Patel, it no longer remains a roadblock, much to the shock of many.

Earlier, the FBI disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers.

The FBI director has come under fire once again. This time, it is for an eligibility criterion that has been updated. But the change has triggered confusion and questions from both sides of the political aisle. The change concerns a crime, which has been removed from a long list of activities which make a person ineligible to enrol in the FBI. And that, is bestiality. Kash Patel has removed bestiality as an automatic disqualifier for candidates applying for a job with the FBI. Earlier, the agency disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers who grilled Patel on the matter during a hearing. The toughest questions came from Louisiana senator of the Red Camp, John Kennedy. In his typical style, Kennedy questioned what Patel meant by the term, 'victims of bestiality', further asking if the FBI director was referring to animals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed But, grinning at the remarks, Patel declined it was a reference to animals; rather, it was about individuals who have been convicted of the unnatural sexual crime. In his defence, the FBI director justified the decision on grounds that many people who are victims of human trafficking get forced to commit criminal and unnatural acts, and they should not be removed from the process of joining the FBI. However, Kennedy's grilling did not end here. The veteran Republican lawmaker went on to question why criminal activities were important to remove or re-adjust and why the FBI would even 'get into it.' Bestiality is the unnatural sexual act between a human and animal. Until now, it was an automatic disqualifier in the FBI enrolment process. However, with the changes introduced by Patel, it no longer remains a roadblock, much to the shock of many.

Earlier, the FBI disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers.

Kash Patel grilled over FBI decision to drop bestiality as hiring disqualifier | Race to Power

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) foiled an alleged plot to attack Sunday’s UFC fight at the White House, FBI Director Kash Patel said in a post on X. The alleged plot targeted UFC Freedom 250, a high-profile White House event held on the South Lawn as part of President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday weekend. The event drew an estimated 4,300 attendees, including about 1,200 active-duty service members, as 14 fighters competed inside a wire mesh cage on Sunday night.&nbsp;Patel, who heads the principal domestic intelligence and federal law enforcement agency of the United States, said in his post, “On June 10, FBI, and our law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C., involving individuals outside of the National Capital Region — and thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody, and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-focus-now-on-ukraine-do-whatever-i-can-says-trump-at-g7-summit-1781608500726">‘Will focus now on Ukraine, do whatever I can,’ says Trump at G7 Summit</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On June 10, FBI and our law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. involving individuals outside of the National Capital Region – and thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of… <a href="https://t.co/PbWkIk1Lr5">pic.twitter.com/PbWkIk1Lr5</a>&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://x.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/2066835691506471290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Five in custody, 23 individuals part of plotters’ network</h2> Five people were in custody as of Monday, and investigators have identified 23 individuals as part of a “potential network” of plotters. The alleged plot comes amid a series of threats and security incidents involving Trump and senior administration officials, heightening concerns about political violence.A senior law enforcement official told NBC News that the plot was “quite serious.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-2026-what-would-success-look-like-in-vian-amid-turbulent-times-1781524196880">G7 Summit 2026: What would success look like in Évian amid turbulent times?</a> <h2>Plan involved using explosive-laden drones to strike </h2> Officials said the alleged plan involved using explosive-laden drones to strike buildings near the event, trigger a mass evacuation and funnel crowds toward a pre-positioned sniper team. A second phase allegedly called for storming the White House gate. The FBI came to know about the threat on June 10 and secured probable cause for an arrest in Cincinnati, where one suspect was taken into custody. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-committed-to-destroy-and-dispose-of-highly-enriched-material-says-vance-1781535582499">‘Iran has committed to destroy and dispose of highly enriched material,’ says Vance</a> Investigators later uncovered Signal chats in which multiple people allegedly discussed attacking the UFC event. A review of one suspect’s iPhone revealed that at least 23 Signal users were discussing pre-operational activity, officials said.Some participants allegedly planned to travel to Fredericksburg, Virginia, on June 12 or 13 to prepare for the attack. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-successfully-tests-indigenous-long-range-land-attack-cruise-missile-1781543212448">DRDO successfully tests indigenous Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile</a> One suspect allegedly told investigators the goal was to target “capitalist elites”, “billionaires” or politicians who received donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, according to the report. The investigation spanned across 12 FBI field offices. FBI Director Kash Patel credited agents, the Department of Justice and law enforcement partners with acting quickly across multiple states to stop the alleged plot.Patel said the operation demonstrated the FBI’s ability to respond swiftly when threats emerge.

The alleged plot targeted UFC Freedom 250, a White House event held on the South Lawn as part of President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday weekend. It comes amid a series of threats and security incidents involving Trump and senior officials, heightening concerns about political violence.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) foiled an alleged plot to attack Sunday’s UFC fight at the White House, FBI Director Kash Patel said in a post on X. The alleged plot targeted UFC Freedom 250, a high-profile White House event held on the South Lawn as part of President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday weekend. The event drew an estimated 4,300 attendees, including about 1,200 active-duty service members, as 14 fighters competed inside a wire mesh cage on Sunday night. Patel, who heads the principal domestic intelligence and federal law enforcement agency of the United States, said in his post, “On June 10, FBI, and our law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C., involving individuals outside of the National Capital Region — and thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody, and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.” Also Read: ‘Will focus now on Ukraine, do whatever I can,’ says Trump at G7 Summit

The alleged plot targeted UFC Freedom 250, a White House event held on the South Lawn as part of President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday weekend. It comes amid a series of threats and security incidents involving Trump and senior officials, heightening concerns about political violence.

FBI foiled plot to attack Sunday’s UFC event at White House with explosive drones, says Kash Patel

Kash Patel, the FBI director currently suing The Atlantic for reporting on his alleged excessive drinking, has been regularly gifting personalised bottles of Kentucky bourbon to FBI staff and civilians he encounters in his official duties, according to a new report from the same outlet. The Atlantic's Sarah Fitzpatrick, the journalist Patel is suing for $250 million, reported that Woodford Reserve bottles engraved with "Kash Patel FBI Director," an FBI shield and Patel's preferred stylisation of his name, "Ka$h," have become a recognisable feature of his tenure.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-nominate-gavin-newsom-trolls-trump-with-nomination-for-important-off-world-endeavor-involving-aliens-1778127569370">'We nominate...': Gavin Newsom trolls Trump with nomination for 'IMPORTANT OFF WORLD ENDEAVOR' involving aliens</a><h2>Amid drinking controversy, Kash Patel's bourbon leak</h2>Eight current and former FBI and Justice Department employees confirmed to the outlet that they've received Patel's personalised bottles. The Atlantic said it purchased one of the bottles after it appeared in an online auction, sold by someone who said it was a gift from Patel at an event in Las Vegas.While the FBI insisted that the liquor was purchased by Kash Patel on his own buck, the bottles have reportedly been transported on Justice Department aircraft. Patel allegedly brought them to Milan when he was photographed drinking beer with the US men's Olympic hockey team, an outing that did not go over well with President Trump, who does not drink. One bottle was reportedly left behind in the Italian locker room.<h2>Kash Patel threatened a polygraph over missing bourbon bottle</h2>In March, Patel allegedly brought an entire case of personalised bourbon to a "training seminar" with the UFC at the FBI's Quantico facility. When one bottle went missing, Patel reportedly "lost his mind" and even threatened polygraph tests and potential prosecution of agents over the missing bottle.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gas-hits-4-50-a-gallon-as-trump-s-approval-ratings-sinks-to-record-low-ahead-of-us-midterms-1778055139043">Gas hits $4.50 a gallon as Trump's approval ratings sink to record low ahead of US midterms</a>Kurt Siuzdak, a retired agent who assists FBI employees with legal issues, told The Atlantic he was subsequently contacted by multiple agents seeking legal help. "It turned into a shitshow," he said.The FBI did not dispute that Patel hands out the bottles, but said the practice was within ethics guidelines and described it as part of "a tradition in the FBI that started well over a decade ago". However, the agency failed to provide evidence of previous directors doing anything similar. Several current and former FBI officials told The Atlantic the practice was basically unheard of for a director.George Hill, a former FBI supervisory intelligence analyst, was blunt. "Handing out bottles of liquor at the premier law-enforcement agency, it makes me frightened for the country. Standards apply to everything and everyone, especially the boss."<h2>Newsom pokes fun at Kash Patel</h2>California Governor Gavin Newsom, in an X post, slammed Patel, saying, "Glad that Kash Patel is focused on the issues that matter: handing out bottles of his liquor, allegedly drinking on the job, and spending our taxpayer dollars on his girlfriend."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Glad that Kash Patel is focused on the issues that matter: handing out bottles of his liquor, allegedly drinking on the job, and spending our taxpayer dollars on his girlfriend. <a href="https://t.co/zVqIFUW49r">https://t.co/zVqIFUW49r</a>&mdash; Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovPressOffice/status/2052159422005211246?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Kash Patel's alleged drinking problem</h2>The bourbon story follows an earlier Atlantic piece detailing what the outlet described as Patel's unexplained absences, erratic behaviour and bouts of excessive drinking, including an incident in which his security team reportedly struggled to wake him and another in which officials requested specialised breaching equipment to reach him behind a locked door. One FBI official told the outlet: "That's what keeps me up at night" referring to concerns about what would happen if the FBI director were unreachable during a domestic terror attack.Patel has denied all of it and filed suit against The Atlantic and Fitzpatrick. The FBI has also reportedly opened a criminal leak investigation into Fitzpatrick in connection with the original article, an unusual move given that leak investigations typically focus on government officials rather than journalists.The Atlantic's editor in chief Jeffrey Goldberg called the reported investigation "an outrageous attack on the free press and the First Amendment itself," vowing the outlet would "not be intimidated by illegitimate investigations or other acts of politically motivated retaliation."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kash Patel’s alleged personalised bourbon bottle habit is now colliding headfirst with his drinking controversy. A new report claims the FBI director handed out engraved “Ka$h” whiskey bottles to staff and officials. All you need to know.

Kash Patel, the FBI director currently suing The Atlantic for reporting on his alleged excessive drinking, has been regularly gifting personalised bottles of Kentucky bourbon to FBI staff and civilians he encounters in his official duties, according to a new report from the same outlet. The Atlantic's Sarah Fitzpatrick, the journalist Patel is suing for $250 million, reported that Woodford Reserve bottles engraved with "Kash Patel FBI Director," an FBI shield and Patel's preferred stylisation of his name, "Ka$h," have become a recognisable feature of his tenure. Also read | 'We nominate...': Gavin Newsom trolls Trump with nomination for 'IMPORTANT OFF WORLD ENDEAVOR' involving aliens Amid drinking controversy, Kash Patel's bourbon leak Eight current and former FBI and Justice Department employees confirmed to the outlet that they've received Patel's personalised bottles. The Atlantic said it purchased one of the bottles after it appeared in an online auction, sold by someone who said it was a gift from Patel at an event in Las Vegas. While the FBI insisted that the liquor was purchased by Kash Patel on his own buck, the bottles have reportedly been transported on Justice Department aircraft. Patel allegedly brought them to Milan when he was photographed drinking beer with the US men's Olympic hockey team, an outing that did not go over well with President Trump, who does not drink. One bottle was reportedly left behind in the Italian locker room. Kash Patel threatened a polygraph over missing bourbon bottle In March, Patel allegedly brought an entire case of personalised bourbon to a "training seminar" with the UFC at the FBI's Quantico facility. When one bottle went missing, Patel reportedly "lost his mind" and even threatened polygraph tests and potential prosecution of agents over the missing bottle. Also read | Gas hits $4.50 a gallon as Trump's approval ratings sink to record low ahead of US midterms Kurt Siuzdak, a retired agent who assists FBI employees with legal issues, told The Atlantic he was subsequently contacted by multiple agents seeking legal help. "It turned into a shitshow," he said. The FBI did not dispute that Patel hands out the bottles, but said the practice was within ethics guidelines and described it as part of "a tradition in the FBI that started well over a decade ago". However, the agency failed to provide evidence of previous directors doing anything similar. Several current and former FBI officials told The Atlantic the practice was basically unheard of for a director. George Hill, a former FBI supervisory intelligence analyst, was blunt. "Handing out bottles of liquor at the premier law-enforcement agency, it makes me frightened for the country. Standards apply to everything and everyone, especially the boss." Newsom pokes fun at Kash Patel California Governor Gavin Newsom, in an X post, slammed Patel, saying, "Glad that Kash Patel is focused on the issues that matter: handing out bottles of his liquor, allegedly drinking on the job, and spending our taxpayer dollars on his girlfriend."

Kash Patel’s alleged personalised bourbon bottle habit is now colliding headfirst with his drinking controversy. A new report claims the FBI director handed out engraved “Ka$h” whiskey bottles to staff and officials. All you need to know.

Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles, while suing over claims he drinks too much

Kash Patel said a previously questioned trip to Italy in early 2026 helped pave the way for the arrest of a Chinese national accused of hacking US COVID-19 research systems. The suspect, Xu Zewei, is now in US custody after what Patel described as a coordinated operation with Italian authorities. Officials say it is a rare case involving the extradition of an alleged state-linked hacker to the United States. Xu was extradited from Italy in recent days and faces federal charges tied to a 2020–2021 cyber campaign targeting sensitive COVID-19 research, including vaccine and treatment development efforts.&nbsp;Patel told Fox News Digital the FBI was able to ‘directly tie’ Xu to China’s Ministry of State Security and its Shanghai bureau, though some details remain classified pending declassification. He said the arrest resulted from close coordination with Italian officials led by Prefect Vittorio Pisani of the Italian National Police, executed within a narrow legal window to prevent delays in extradition. Officials from both countries worked to ensure Xu remained in Italy long enough for the operation to proceed. "We created an opportunity with our partners in Italy to have him apprehended there," Patel said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-fbi-chief-james-comey-charged-with-threatening-trump-s-life-todd-blanche-1777408901588">Former FBI chief James Comey charged with threatening Trump's life; says, 'I am still innocent and unafraid'</a>&nbsp;Patel said the same Italy trip, previously criticized due to his attendance at Olympic events, also helped lay the groundwork for the case. He described Xu as one of the top two cyber criminals in the world for China, alleging involvement in hacking US universities and researchers during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. "We were able to bring him to Houston for prosecution, which is most of what I was doing when people said I was on vacation in Italy," Patel said.&nbsp;According to the indictment, Xu allegedly reported to Chinese intelligence after infiltrating a US research university in 2020 and was directed to access accounts of virologists and immunologists studying COVID-19. Officials also allege Chinese authorities attempted to block the extradition in recent days. Patel cited past cases where suspected Chinese operatives avoided extradition, including one in 2025 involving a suspect returned from Serbia to China.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-war-under-fire-for-celebrity-helicopter-flights-1777398315373/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-war-under-fire-for-celebrity-helicopter-flights-1777398315373/embed</a>&nbsp;Prosecutors say Xu was part of the broader “HAFNIUM” hacking campaign that exploited Microsoft Exchange Server vulnerabilities, affecting thousands of systems worldwide, including over 12,000 in the United States. Among the targets was a Washington-based law firm, where attackers allegedly searched emails tied to U.S. policymakers and government agencies. Xu’s alleged co-conspirator remains at large.&nbsp;Patel said countering Chinese cyber espionage remains a top priority for the FBI. "The MSS is always a target of the FBI. They’re always operating whether it’s to steal our classified information, our nation’s research and scientific information, or anything they can use to embarrass us or leverage against us," Patel said. “They’re going to keep doing it.” He added, "We’ve arrested more Chinese spies than any FBI before me," and said the crackdown will continue.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirms arrest of Chinese hacker Xu Zewei extradited from Italy over COVID-19 cyberattacks targeting U.S. research systems

Kash Patel said a previously questioned trip to Italy in early 2026 helped pave the way for the arrest of a Chinese national accused of hacking US COVID-19 research systems. The suspect, Xu Zewei, is now in US custody after what Patel described as a coordinated operation with Italian authorities. Officials say it is a rare case involving the extradition of an alleged state-linked hacker to the United States. Xu was extradited from Italy in recent days and faces federal charges tied to a 2020–2021 cyber campaign targeting sensitive COVID-19 research, including vaccine and treatment development efforts. Patel told Fox News Digital the FBI was able to ‘directly tie’ Xu to China’s Ministry of State Security and its Shanghai bureau, though some details remain classified pending declassification. He said the arrest resulted from close coordination with Italian officials led by Prefect Vittorio Pisani of the Italian National Police, executed within a narrow legal window to prevent delays in extradition. Officials from both countries worked to ensure Xu remained in Italy long enough for the operation to proceed. "We created an opportunity with our partners in Italy to have him apprehended there," Patel said. Also Read: Former FBI chief James Comey charged with threatening Trump's life; says, 'I am still innocent and unafraid' Patel said the same Italy trip, previously criticized due to his attendance at Olympic events, also helped lay the groundwork for the case. He described Xu as one of the top two cyber criminals in the world for China, alleging involvement in hacking US universities and researchers during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. "We were able to bring him to Houston for prosecution, which is most of what I was doing when people said I was on vacation in Italy," Patel said. According to the indictment, Xu allegedly reported to Chinese intelligence after infiltrating a US research university in 2020 and was directed to access accounts of virologists and immunologists studying COVID-19. Officials also allege Chinese authorities attempted to block the extradition in recent days. Patel cited past cases where suspected Chinese operatives avoided extradition, including one in 2025 involving a suspect returned from Serbia to China. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-war-under-fire-for-celebrity-helicopter-flights-1777398315373/embed Prosecutors say Xu was part of the broader “HAFNIUM” hacking campaign that exploited Microsoft Exchange Server vulnerabilities, affecting thousands of systems worldwide, including over 12,000 in the United States. Among the targets was a Washington-based law firm, where attackers allegedly searched emails tied to U.S. policymakers and government agencies. Xu’s alleged co-conspirator remains at large. Patel said countering Chinese cyber espionage remains a top priority for the FBI. "The MSS is always a target of the FBI. They’re always operating whether it’s to steal our classified information, our nation’s research and scientific information, or anything they can use to embarrass us or leverage against us," Patel said. “They’re going to keep doing it.” He added, "We’ve arrested more Chinese spies than any FBI before me," and said the crackdown will continue.

FBI says China-linked hacker Xu Zewei extradited from Italy after COVID-19 cyberattacks; Kash Patel links arrest to coordinated international operation

Alleged China-linked hacker extradited to US in rare case; Kash Patel defends Italy trip role

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing renewed scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and disclosures from a 2005 letter tied to his Florida Bar application resurfaced. The letter, obtained by The Intercept from Patel’s personnel file at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office, was reportedly written “per instructions of my employer” and details two incidents from his younger years involving alcohol.&nbsp;In one 2005 incident, while a law student at Pace University, Patel described being arrested after a night out with friends. “We went to a few of the local bars and consumed some alcoholic drinks,” he wrote. He recounted that later, during a walk home, he and his friends made a poor decision. “In a gross deviation from appropriate conduct, we attempted to relieve our bladders while walking home,” Patel said. “Before we could even do so, a police cruiser stopped the group. We were then arrested for public urination.” Patel said he paid a fine following the incident.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-iran-us-meeting-planned-in-pakistan-says-iranian-fm-spokesperson-esmaeil-baghaei-witkoff-kushner-head-to-islamabad-1777070562114">'No Iran-US meeting planned in Pakistan', says Iranian FM spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei; Witkoff, Kushner head to Islamabad</a>&nbsp;

A letter by Kash Patel from his personnel file at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office

In another case from 2001, Patel wrote that he was arrested for public intoxication while a student at the University of Richmond. “Upon exiting the arena,” he wrote, “the officer placed me under arrest for public intoxication, as I was not yet of 21 years of age.” He said he had consumed two drinks and later paid a fine, with NBC News previously reporting he was found guilty of a misdemeanor.<h2>What are the allegations against Kash Patel?</h2>Patel’s spokesperson Erica Knight defended him, saying: “Kash’s entire background was thoroughly examined and vetted prior to him assuming this role… These attacks are nothing more than an attempt to undermine a process that has already deemed him suitable to serve and a distraction to the record-breaking success of the FBI under Director Patel.” Patel has also faced recent criticism over alcohol-related claims. A viral video showed him drinking beer with the US Olympic hockey team in Italy, while reports in The Atlantic alleged he was intoxicated at private clubs in Washington and Las Vegas.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/raghav-chadha-s-move-a-blow-to-party-chief-and-ex-delhi-cm-kejriwal-1777054501873/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/raghav-chadha-s-move-a-blow-to-party-chief-and-ex-delhi-cm-kejriwal-1777054501873/embed</a>&nbsp;Patel denied the allegations and filed a defamation lawsuit. His lawyer Jesse R. Binnall said, “These claims about erratic behavior and excessive drinking are fabricated.” “I have never been intoxicated on the job, and that is why we filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit,” Patel said at a press conference. “And any one of you who wants to participate, bring it on. I’ll see you in court.”

FBI Director Kash Patel faces renewed scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and a resurfaced 2005 letter, while denying current allegations

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing renewed scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and disclosures from a 2005 letter tied to his Florida Bar application resurfaced. The letter, obtained by The Intercept from Patel’s personnel file at the Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office, was reportedly written “per instructions of my employer” and details two incidents from his younger years involving alcohol. In one 2005 incident, while a law student at Pace University, Patel described being arrested after a night out with friends. “We went to a few of the local bars and consumed some alcoholic drinks,” he wrote. He recounted that later, during a walk home, he and his friends made a poor decision. “In a gross deviation from appropriate conduct, we attempted to relieve our bladders while walking home,” Patel said. “Before we could even do so, a police cruiser stopped the group. We were then arrested for public urination.” Patel said he paid a fine following the incident. Also Read: 'No Iran-US meeting planned in Pakistan', says Iranian FM spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei; Witkoff, Kushner head to Islamabad

FBI Director Kash Patel faces scrutiny after past alcohol-related arrests and a resurfaced 2005 letter, while he denies current drinking allegations

Shocking! Kash Patel was arrested twice before FBI role. Details from 2005 letter resurface amid new allegations

FBI director Kash Patel sued The Atlantic magazine and reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick for writing an article that levelled allegations of alcoholism against him. The Atlantic that has been sued for USD 250 million said it stood by its reporting and would vigorously defend against the “meritless lawsuit.”&nbsp;“We stand by our reporting on Kash Patel, and we will vigorously defend The Atlantic and our journalists against this meritless lawsuit,” said the spokesperson.&nbsp;The defamation suit was filed Monday morning by Kash Patel in US District Court in the District of Columbia.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-iran-says-lots-of-bombs-start-going-off-if-ceasefire-expires-1776707096610">'Lots of bombs start going off' if ceasefire expires: Trump warns Iran</a>&nbsp;The defamation suit says that Fitzpatrick's article wrongly asserts that Patel “is a habitual drunk, unable to perform the duties of his office, is a threat to public safety, is vulnerable to foreign coercion, has violated DOJ ethics rules, is unreachable in emergencies, has required the deployment of ‘breaching equipment’ to extract him from locked rooms, allows alcohol to influence his public statements about criminal investigations, and behaves erratically in a manner that compromises national security.”&nbsp;The article published in The Atlantic's website on Thursday read, Patel is worried about losing his job and “he has good reasons to think so — including some having to do with what witnesses described to me as bouts of excessive drinking.”&nbsp;Patel, in the lawsuit has denied the allegations and hit out at the magazine for relying on anonymous sources for its article.&nbsp;According to the reporter &nbsp;Fitzpatrick, two dozen people were interviewed for the story and were given assurance that their names will be kept anonymous.&nbsp;

The defamation suit says that Fitzpatricks article wrongly asserts that Patel is a habitual drunk, unable to perform the duties of his office and is a threat to public safety.

FBI director Kash Patel sued The Atlantic magazine and reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick for writing an article that levelled allegations of alcoholism against him. The Atlantic that has been sued for USD 250 million said it stood by its reporting and would vigorously defend against the “meritless lawsuit.” “We stand by our reporting on Kash Patel, and we will vigorously defend The Atlantic and our journalists against this meritless lawsuit,” said the spokesperson. The defamation suit was filed Monday morning by Kash Patel in US District Court in the District of Columbia. ALSO READ: 'Lots of bombs start going off' if ceasefire expires: Trump warns Iran The defamation suit says that Fitzpatrick's article wrongly asserts that Patel “is a habitual drunk, unable to perform the duties of his office, is a threat to public safety, is vulnerable to foreign coercion, has violated DOJ ethics rules, is unreachable in emergencies, has required the deployment of ‘breaching equipment’ to extract him from locked rooms, allows alcohol to influence his public statements about criminal investigations, and behaves erratically in a manner that compromises national security.” The article published in The Atlantic's website on Thursday read, Patel is worried about losing his job and “he has good reasons to think so — including some having to do with what witnesses described to me as bouts of excessive drinking.” Patel, in the lawsuit has denied the allegations and hit out at the magazine for relying on anonymous sources for its article. According to the reporter Fitzpatrick, two dozen people were interviewed for the story and were given assurance that their names will be kept anonymous.

The defamation suit says that Fitzpatrick's article wrongly asserts that Patel “is a habitual drunk, unable to perform the duties of his office and is a threat to public safety."

Kash Patel files defamation suit against The Atlantic magazine for alleging excessive drinking

&nbsp;An alleged key participant in the deadly 2012 attack on a US compound in Benghazi has been taken into custody and set to face charges in the US, Justice Department officials said on Friday (Feb 06). The attack resulted in the death of four officials, including the American Ambassador to Libya, J Christopher Stevens,&nbsp;&nbsp;US Attorney General Pam Bondi, Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeannie Pirro, and FBI Director Kash Patel announced the case against Zubayar al-Bakoush.&nbsp;"Al-Bakoush will now face American justice on American soil," Bondi said. "We will prosecute this alleged terrorist to the fullest extent of the law. He'll face charges related to murder, terrorism, arson, among others."<h2>How did the Benghazi attack unfold?</h2>The 2012 Benghazi attack was a coordinated terrorist assault carried out by the militant group Ansar al-Sharia against two United States government facilities in Benghazi, Libya, on the night of September 11 and the early morning of September 12. The violence began at a diplomatic compound where militants set fire to the main building, leading to the deaths of US Ambassador J Christopher Stevens and Information Officer Sean Smith due to smoke inhalation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disgusting-behaviour-by-president-most-openly-racist-trump-shares-video-depicting-obamas-as-monkeys-sparks-outrage-1770392209346">‘Disgusting behaviour by President’: ‘Most openly racist’ Trump shares video depicting Obamas as monkeys, sparks outrage</a>&nbsp;Hours later, a second targeted mortar attack hit a nearby CIA Annexe, killing two security contractors and former Navy SEALs, Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty. The incident sparked intense political controversy in the US regarding security failures and the administration's initial, later-disproved narrative that the attack was a spontaneous protest against an anti-Islamic video.&nbsp;The United States has previously convicted at least two Libyans for involvement in the Benghazi attack. Ahmed Abu Khatallah was sentenced to 22 years in prison in 2018, and Mustafa al-Imam was sentenced to nearly 20 years in 2020.

The 2012 attack on a US diplomatic mission in Libya’s Benghazi killed Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans.

An alleged key participant in the deadly 2012 attack on a US compound in Benghazi has been taken into custody and set to face charges in the US, Justice Department officials said on Friday (Feb 06). The attack resulted in the death of four officials, including the American Ambassador to Libya, J Christopher Stevens, US Attorney General Pam Bondi, Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeannie Pirro, and FBI Director Kash Patel announced the case against Zubayar al-Bakoush. "Al-Bakoush will now face American justice on American soil," Bondi said. "We will prosecute this alleged terrorist to the fullest extent of the law. He'll face charges related to murder, terrorism, arson, among others." How did the Benghazi attack unfold? The 2012 Benghazi attack was a coordinated terrorist assault carried out by the militant group Ansar al-Sharia against two United States government facilities in Benghazi, Libya, on the night of September 11 and the early morning of September 12. The violence began at a diplomatic compound where militants set fire to the main building, leading to the deaths of US Ambassador J Christopher Stevens and Information Officer Sean Smith due to smoke inhalation. Also Read: ‘Disgusting behaviour by President’: ‘Most openly racist’ Trump shares video depicting Obamas as monkeys, sparks outrage Hours later, a second targeted mortar attack hit a nearby CIA Annexe, killing two security contractors and former Navy SEALs, Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty. The incident sparked intense political controversy in the US regarding security failures and the administration's initial, later-disproved narrative that the attack was a spontaneous protest against an anti-Islamic video. The United States has previously convicted at least two Libyans for involvement in the Benghazi attack. Ahmed Abu Khatallah was sentenced to 22 years in prison in 2018, and Mustafa al-Imam was sentenced to nearly 20 years in 2020.

The 2012 attack on a US diplomatic mission in Libya’s Benghazi killed Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans.

US arrests ‘key participant’ in Benghazi terror attack after 13 years: What happened?

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel said on Friday that the federal agency thwarted a potential terrorist attack over Halloween weekend and arrested several suspects in Michigan. The arrests made in Michigan are tied to international terrorism, said a Fox News report, citing a top federal law enforcement source. In a post on X early Friday, Patel said, “This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come.” “Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7 and crushing our mission to defend the homeland.” Federal Bureau of Investigation is the primary federal law enforcement agency in the US and is also the domestic intelligence and security service.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come. Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7…&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1984222011158102097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a statement to Fox News, Patel said the quick response prevented a potentially tragic situation from unfolding.“Through swift action and close coordination with our local partners, a potential act of terror was stopped before it could unfold,” Patel said. “The vigilance of this FBI prevented what could have been a tragic attack—and thanks to their dedication, Michigan will have a safe and happy Halloween.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slashes-refugee-cap-to-7-500-mostly-for-afrikaners-in-huge-cut-from-biden-era-1761850616227">Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era</a>&nbsp;FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also praised the operation and called it an example of proactive law enforcement that saves lives."This is what real law enforcement looks like—proactive, relentless, and focused on saving lives," Bongino said in a statement to Fox.&nbsp;The FBI’s Detroit field office confirmed that “the FBI in Michigan were present in the cities of Dearborn and Inkster this morning conducting law enforcement activities,” spokesperson Jordan Hall told CNN. “There is no current threat to public safety.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheesh-mahal-2-0-bjp-accuses-arvind-kejriwal-of-building-mansion-in-chandigarh-with-punjab-funds-1761913105950">Sheesh Mahal 2.0: BJP accuses Arvind Kejriwal of building mansion in Chandigarh with Punjab funds</a>&nbsp;In a post on Facebook, the police department in Dearborn, a city west of Detroit, said the FBI had conducted operations in Dearborn early Friday.&nbsp;The Dearborn Police Department said it “has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier this morning.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-cricket-captain-mohd-azharuddin-sworn-in-as-minister-in-telangana-1761917339878">Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin sworn in as minister in Telangana</a>&nbsp;“We want to assure our residents that there is no threat to the community at this time,” the police department said.&nbsp;WATCH: Flu Season 2025: UK Braces for Worst Flu Epidemic in a Decade | DISPATCH | WION<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/flu-season-2025-uk-braces-for-worst-flu-epidemic-in-a-decade-dispatch-wion-1761920631486/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/flu-season-2025-uk-braces-for-worst-flu-epidemic-in-a-decade-dispatch-wion-1761920631486/embed</a>&nbsp;

The Dearborn Police Department said it has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier Friday morning. In a post on Facebook, the police department in Dearborn, a city west of Detroit, assured residents that there is no threat to the community.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel said on Friday that the federal agency thwarted a potential terrorist attack over Halloween weekend and arrested several suspects in Michigan. The arrests made in Michigan are tied to international terrorism, said a Fox News report, citing a top federal law enforcement source. In a post on X early Friday, Patel said, “This morning the FBI thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. More details to come.” “Thanks to the men and women of FBI and law enforcement everywhere standing guard 24/7 and crushing our mission to defend the homeland.” Federal Bureau of Investigation is the primary federal law enforcement agency in the US and is also the domestic intelligence and security service. Also Read: JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually

The Dearborn Police Department said it has been made aware that the FBI conducted operations in the City of Dearborn earlier Friday morning. In a post on Facebook, the police department in Dearborn, a city west of Detroit, assured residents that there is no threat to the community.

FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report

The FBI has dismissed a group of agents who were photographed kneeling at a racial justice protest following the death of George Floyd, CBS News reported.<h2>Why were the agents sacked?</h2>Termination letters reportedly cited a “lack of judgment” in their actions. Between 15 and 20 agents are believed to have been removed. They were pictured kneeling with demonstrators in 2020, after Floyd was killed by police officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-mocked-for-calling-generals-for-meeting-that-could-have-been-an-email-1759057217818">'WEAK, NO BRAINS, NO TALENT': Pete Hegseth mocked for calling generals for meeting that ‘could have been an email’</a><h2>Kneeling became a symbol of protest</h2>Floyd’s death, caused by Chauvin pressing his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes, sparked worldwide outrage and protests against police brutality. Chauvin is now serving a 22-and-a-half-year sentence for murder.Kneeling had already been used in the US as a symbol of dissent against racism, most notably by NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick. At the time of the demonstrations, some officers and agents argued that kneeling was a way to calm tensions with protesters, rather than an endorsement of their views.<h2>FBI faces internal backlash</h2>The FBI Agents Association condemned the dismissals, saying the agents’ rights had been violated. In its statement, it accused FBI Director Kash Patel of a “dangerous new pattern of actions” that was “weakening the Bureau” and making it harder to attract and keep experienced staff.The reported firings come as the Trump administration moves to remove what it calls left-wing or “woke” influences from across the federal government.<h2>Wider purge at the Bureau</h2>The sackings are the latest in a string of high-level departures at the agency. Former acting director Brian Driscoll, former Washington field office head Steven Jensen, and Spencer Evans, the former Las Vegas field office chief, were all removed recently.Earlier this month, the three men filed a lawsuit against Patel and US Attorney General Pam Bondi, alleging they were dismissed to please Donald Trump.

The FBI has reportedly dismissed 15–20 agents for kneeling at a 2020 George Floyd protest, citing poor judgement. The firings sparked backlash, with critics accusing the Bureau of political purges.

The FBI has dismissed a group of agents who were photographed kneeling at a racial justice protest following the death of George Floyd, CBS News reported. Why were the agents sacked? Termination letters reportedly cited a “lack of judgment” in their actions. Between 15 and 20 agents are believed to have been removed. They were pictured kneeling with demonstrators in 2020, after Floyd was killed by police officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis. Also read: 'WEAK, NO BRAINS, NO TALENT': Pete Hegseth mocked for calling generals for meeting that ‘could have been an email’ Kneeling became a symbol of protest Floyd’s death, caused by Chauvin pressing his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes, sparked worldwide outrage and protests against police brutality. Chauvin is now serving a 22-and-a-half-year sentence for murder. Kneeling had already been used in the US as a symbol of dissent against racism, most notably by NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick. At the time of the demonstrations, some officers and agents argued that kneeling was a way to calm tensions with protesters, rather than an endorsement of their views. FBI faces internal backlash The FBI Agents Association condemned the dismissals, saying the agents’ rights had been violated. In its statement, it accused FBI Director Kash Patel of a “dangerous new pattern of actions” that was “weakening the Bureau” and making it harder to attract and keep experienced staff. The reported firings come as the Trump administration moves to remove what it calls left-wing or “woke” influences from across the federal government. Wider purge at the Bureau The sackings are the latest in a string of high-level departures at the agency. Former acting director Brian Driscoll, former Washington field office head Steven Jensen, and Spencer Evans, the former Las Vegas field office chief, were all removed recently. Earlier this month, the three men filed a lawsuit against Patel and US Attorney General Pam Bondi, alleging they were dismissed to please Donald Trump.

The FBI has reportedly dismissed 15–20 agents for kneeling at a 2020 George Floyd protest, citing poor judgement. The firings sparked backlash, with critics accusing the Bureau of political purges.

'Weakening the Bureau': FBI fires agents who 'bent the knee' during George Floyd protests amid anti-woke crackdown

When Donald Trump named Kash Patel as Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), it was framed by allies as a triumph of “reform". In reality, it has been a disaster. Patel is not a guardian of law enforcement independence. He is a partisan soldier, a conspiracy theorist in a suit, and a man whose contempt for democratic norms makes him uniquely unfit to oversee the FBI. Even in Washington’s long history of controversial appointments, Patel stands out as a catastrophic choice — one who threatens to corrode an institution already straining under decades of scandal and politicisation.<h2>A Director With a Grievance, Not a Mission</h2>The FBI demands neutrality. Its director must embody restraint, even-handedness, and fidelity to the Constitution above personal or partisan loyalty. Patel offers the opposite. His career has been built not on investigative integrity but on weaponising grievances. His book Government Gangsters — a feverish screed against what he calls the “deep state” — lists dozens of public servants as enemies of America. Critics were right to call it an “enemies list".&nbsp;&nbsp;That book alone should have disqualified him from ever serving as head of a nonpartisan law enforcement body. To name such a man at the FBI’s helm is like giving J Edgar Hoover’s paranoia a second life, but without Hoover’s instinct for institutional preservation. Patel entered office not as a servant of the law, but as a man determined to settle scores.<h2>The Epstein Files Betrayal</h2>Patel’s unfitness has been most glaring in his handling of the Epstein files. Before his appointment, he tantalised the public with promises of sweeping disclosures, hinting that the FBI would finally expose the powerful figures tied to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. Those words electrified his base, who saw Patel as a truth-teller poised to pierce decades of elite cover-ups.&nbsp;Yet once he assumed power, Patel reversed course. In a five-hour House Judiciary Committee hearing this month, he invoked legal restrictions to justify withholding crucial materials, from alleged client lists to suspicious bank transfers flagged by regulators. When pressed by Democrats, Patel sneered: “Should I break the law to satisfy your curiosity?”This line is emblematic of his hypocrisy. For years, Patel treated the Epstein files as a cudgel — proof, he suggested, of corruption at the highest levels. Now that he controls them, he hides behind technicalities. The bait-and-switch reeks not of fidelity to the law but of calculated evasion.&nbsp;Worse, Patel has left survivors and victims’ families in limbo. They were promised accountability, yet under his watch, the Epstein investigation looks more like a burial than a reckoning.<h2>Retaliation Disguised as 'Reform'</h2>Patel has also overseen a wave of firings that reek of political retaliation. Veteran agents allege they were dismissed for pursuing politically inconvenient investigations — the very kind of independence the FBI was designed to protect. Lawsuits are already mounting, and whistleblower complaints suggest a culture of fear has taken root. Patel defends these purges as “reform.” In truth, they hollow out the FBI’s professional core, replacing seasoned investigators with loyalists more concerned with ideology than evidence. The Bureau is weaker, less independent, and more beholden to partisan winds than at any point since Hoover’s reign. This is not reform. It is sabotage.<h2>The Director of Conspiracies</h2>Patel’s credibility was never rooted in fact. He has long trafficked in conspiracy theories that should automatically disqualify any candidate for high office. He has promoted QAnon-adjacent rhetoric. He has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the 2020 election. He has indulged in anti-vaccine misinformation during a global pandemic. These are not minor lapses in judgment. They are proof of a worldview unmoored from evidence — precisely the opposite of what the FBI requires from its leader.&nbsp;In congressional hearings, Patel has doubled down on this recklessness. His confrontations with lawmakers reveal a man more interested in grandstanding than answering questions. When Senator Cory Booker accused him of endangering democratic accountability, Patel smirked. When Representative Adam Schiff pressed him on partisan bias, Patel lashed back with insults. Such swagger may thrill his supporters, but it corrodes the dignity of the office he holds.The FBI Director cannot behave like a talk-radio provocateur. Yet that is exactly what Patel has become.<h2>The Charlie Kirk Debacle</h2>Patel’s recklessness is not just rhetorical; it has concrete consequences. When conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed earlier this year, Patel rushed to announce that the suspect was in custody. That claim proved misleading at best and false at worst. The FBI under his command mishandled communications so badly that lawmakers demanded immediate clarification. A Director who cannot manage the basic responsibility of accurate public information cannot be trusted with the far weightier matters of counterterrorism, organised crime, or foreign espionage. The Kirk case is not a minor embarrassment. It is a symptom of deeper rot — a leadership style defined by haste, arrogance, and disregard for facts.<h2>The danger to the Institution</h2>The FBI is not sacred. It has a long, troubling history of overreach, from Hoover’s files on civil rights leaders to the botched handling of the 2020 election. But even in its worst moments, the Bureau retained some veneer of professionalism, some recognition that its legitimacy depended on restraint. Patel is shredding even that. His leadership has already driven public trust in the FBI to historic lows. Gallup and Pew surveys show confidence collapsing across the political spectrum. Each time Patel leans into grievance politics, he confirms the worst fears of his critics: that the Bureau is no longer a guardian of justice but a partisan weapon.&nbsp;This matters. The FBI controls extraordinary powers — surveillance, subpoenas, counterintelligence operations, prosecutions. In the wrong hands, those powers can tilt elections, crush dissent, and undermine democracy itself. To entrust them to Patel is to hand a loaded weapon to a man who has shown again and again that he cannot be trusted.&nbsp;America has endured controversial FBI Directors before. Hoover abused his office for half a century. James Comey became a lightning rod for his handling of the Clinton and Trump investigations. But neither man entered the job with Patel’s combination of paranoia, grievance, and open disdain for institutional independence. Patel is not merely a bad fit. He is a mortal threat to the Bureau’s credibility — and by extension, to the rule of law itself. If the FBI becomes a tool of partisan vengeance, no American is safe from its abuses.<h2>Congress Must Act</h2>The time for patience has passed. Congressional oversight must be relentless. Subpoenas should fly. Depositions must be compelled. Lawsuits from wrongfully terminated agents should be expedited. Patel’s every action should be scrutinised not as the ordinary mistakes of a new director, but as evidence of a man unfit for the role he holds. If Patel cannot — or will not — restore the FBI’s neutrality, then Congress must move toward the most drastic remedies available: demanding his resignation or initiating the process for removal.&nbsp;Kash Patel is not suited to lead the FBI. His enemies list, his betrayals on the Epstein files, his retaliatory purges, his indulgence of conspiracy theories, and his reckless public missteps have already damaged the Bureau’s credibility beyond repair. Every day he remains in office, the FBI drifts further from the impartial guardian it was meant to be and closer to a partisan weapon wielded against political opponents.&nbsp;America deserves better. If Patel will not step aside, Congress must force the issue. The survival of democratic accountability depends on it.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Why Kash Patel must go: The FBI’s integrity is at stake

When Donald Trump named Kash Patel as Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), it was framed by allies as a triumph of “reform". In reality, it has been a disaster. Patel is not a guardian of law enforcement independence. He is a partisan soldier, a conspiracy theorist in a suit, and a man whose contempt for democratic norms makes him uniquely unfit to oversee the FBI. Even in Washington’s long history of controversial appointments, Patel stands out as a catastrophic choice — one who threatens to corrode an institution already straining under decades of scandal and politicisation. A Director With a Grievance, Not a Mission The FBI demands neutrality. Its director must embody restraint, even-handedness, and fidelity to the Constitution above personal or partisan loyalty. Patel offers the opposite. His career has been built not on investigative integrity but on weaponising grievances. His book Government Gangsters — a feverish screed against what he calls the “deep state” — lists dozens of public servants as enemies of America. Critics were right to call it an “enemies list". That book alone should have disqualified him from ever serving as head of a nonpartisan law enforcement body. To name such a man at the FBI’s helm is like giving J Edgar Hoover’s paranoia a second life, but without Hoover’s instinct for institutional preservation. Patel entered office not as a servant of the law, but as a man determined to settle scores. The Epstein Files Betrayal Patel’s unfitness has been most glaring in his handling of the Epstein files. Before his appointment, he tantalised the public with promises of sweeping disclosures, hinting that the FBI would finally expose the powerful figures tied to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. Those words electrified his base, who saw Patel as a truth-teller poised to pierce decades of elite cover-ups. Yet once he assumed power, Patel reversed course. In a five-hour House Judiciary Committee hearing this month, he invoked legal restrictions to justify withholding crucial materials, from alleged client lists to suspicious bank transfers flagged by regulators. When pressed by Democrats, Patel sneered: “Should I break the law to satisfy your curiosity?” This line is emblematic of his hypocrisy. For years, Patel treated the Epstein files as a cudgel — proof, he suggested, of corruption at the highest levels. Now that he controls them, he hides behind technicalities. The bait-and-switch reeks not of fidelity to the law but of calculated evasion. Worse, Patel has left survivors and victims’ families in limbo. They were promised accountability, yet under his watch, the Epstein investigation looks more like a burial than a reckoning. Retaliation Disguised as 'Reform' Patel has also overseen a wave of firings that reek of political retaliation. Veteran agents allege they were dismissed for pursuing politically inconvenient investigations — the very kind of independence the FBI was designed to protect. Lawsuits are already mounting, and whistleblower complaints suggest a culture of fear has taken root. Patel defends these purges as “reform.” In truth, they hollow out the FBI’s professional core, replacing seasoned investigators with loyalists more concerned with ideology than evidence. The Bureau is weaker, less independent, and more beholden to partisan winds than at any point since Hoover’s reign. This is not reform. It is sabotage. The Director of Conspiracies Patel’s credibility was never rooted in fact. He has long trafficked in conspiracy theories that should automatically disqualify any candidate for high office. He has promoted QAnon-adjacent rhetoric. He has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the 2020 election. He has indulged in anti-vaccine misinformation during a global pandemic. These are not minor lapses in judgment. They are proof of a worldview unmoored from evidence — precisely the opposite of what the FBI requires from its leader. In congressional hearings, Patel has doubled down on this recklessness. His confrontations with lawmakers reveal a man more interested in grandstanding than answering questions. When Senator Cory Booker accused him of endangering democratic accountability, Patel smirked. When Representative Adam Schiff pressed him on partisan bias, Patel lashed back with insults. Such swagger may thrill his supporters, but it corrodes the dignity of the office he holds. The FBI Director cannot behave like a talk-radio provocateur. Yet that is exactly what Patel has become. The Charlie Kirk Debacle Patel’s recklessness is not just rhetorical; it has concrete consequences. When conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed earlier this year, Patel rushed to announce that the suspect was in custody. That claim proved misleading at best and false at worst. The FBI under his command mishandled communications so badly that lawmakers demanded immediate clarification. A Director who cannot manage the basic responsibility of accurate public information cannot be trusted with the far weightier matters of counterterrorism, organised crime, or foreign espionage. The Kirk case is not a minor embarrassment. It is a symptom of deeper rot — a leadership style defined by haste, arrogance, and disregard for facts. The danger to the Institution The FBI is not sacred. It has a long, troubling history of overreach, from Hoover’s files on civil rights leaders to the botched handling of the 2020 election. But even in its worst moments, the Bureau retained some veneer of professionalism, some recognition that its legitimacy depended on restraint. Patel is shredding even that. His leadership has already driven public trust in the FBI to historic lows. Gallup and Pew surveys show confidence collapsing across the political spectrum. Each time Patel leans into grievance politics, he confirms the worst fears of his critics: that the Bureau is no longer a guardian of justice but a partisan weapon. This matters. The FBI controls extraordinary powers — surveillance, subpoenas, counterintelligence operations, prosecutions. In the wrong hands, those powers can tilt elections, crush dissent, and undermine democracy itself. To entrust them to Patel is to hand a loaded weapon to a man who has shown again and again that he cannot be trusted. America has endured controversial FBI Directors before. Hoover abused his office for half a century. James Comey became a lightning rod for his handling of the Clinton and Trump investigations. But neither man entered the job with Patel’s combination of paranoia, grievance, and open disdain for institutional independence. Patel is not merely a bad fit. He is a mortal threat to the Bureau’s credibility — and by extension, to the rule of law itself. If the FBI becomes a tool of partisan vengeance, no American is safe from its abuses. Congress Must Act The time for patience has passed. Congressional oversight must be relentless. Subpoenas should fly. Depositions must be compelled. Lawsuits from wrongfully terminated agents should be expedited. Patel’s every action should be scrutinised not as the ordinary mistakes of a new director, but as evidence of a man unfit for the role he holds. If Patel cannot — or will not — restore the FBI’s neutrality, then Congress must move toward the most drastic remedies available: demanding his resignation or initiating the process for removal. Kash Patel is not suited to lead the FBI. His enemies list, his betrayals on the Epstein files, his retaliatory purges, his indulgence of conspiracy theories, and his reckless public missteps have already damaged the Bureau’s credibility beyond repair. Every day he remains in office, the FBI drifts further from the impartial guardian it was meant to be and closer to a partisan weapon wielded against political opponents. America deserves better. If Patel will not step aside, Congress must force the issue. The survival of democratic accountability depends on it. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The FBI demands neutrality. Its director must embody restraint, even-handedness, and fidelity to the Constitution above personal or partisan loyalty. Patel offers the opposite

White House border czar Tom Homan was investigated last year by federal agents after allegations he accepted $50,000 in cash from undercover operatives posing as business executives. The agents suggested they were seeking government contracts, according to a report by MSNBC. The alleged meeting took place in September 2024 and was recorded on hidden cameras, but the case was later closed without charges.<h2>What did the FBI and Justice Department find?</h2>Federal officials confirmed the probe was reviewed in full. FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a joint statement, “They found no credible evidence of any criminal wrongdoing. The Department’s resources must remain focused on real threats to the American people, not baseless investigations. As a result, the investigation has been closed.”<h2>Why did the case collapse?</h2>According to MSNBC, investigators wanted to see if Homan would follow through on his alleged promises to help the agents win contracts. However, the process stalled and was eventually dropped under the Trump administration.<h2>How has the White House reacted?</h2>The White House dismissed the case as politically driven. “The investigation is yet another example of how the Biden Department of Justice was using its resources to target President Trump’s allies rather than investigate real criminals,” spokesperson Abigail Jackson said. She added that Homan “has not been involved with any contract award decisions” and described him as a “career law enforcement officer and lifelong public servant” who was “doing a phenomenal job on behalf of President Trump and the country.”<h2>Who is Tom Homan?</h2>Homan has long been a close ally of Donald Trump. He previously served as the director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement during Trump’s first term and returned as the White House’s border czar in the second. He has been one of the most visible figures in Trump’s immigration crackdown and deportation policies.

White House border czar Tom Homan was investigated over a $50,000 bribery sting, but FBI and Justice Department found no wrongdoing. The case was closed without charges, sparking political controversy.

White House border czar Tom Homan was investigated last year by federal agents after allegations he accepted $50,000 in cash from undercover operatives posing as business executives. The agents suggested they were seeking government contracts, according to a report by MSNBC. The alleged meeting took place in September 2024 and was recorded on hidden cameras, but the case was later closed without charges. What did the FBI and Justice Department find? Federal officials confirmed the probe was reviewed in full. FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a joint statement, “They found no credible evidence of any criminal wrongdoing. The Department’s resources must remain focused on real threats to the American people, not baseless investigations. As a result, the investigation has been closed.” Why did the case collapse? According to MSNBC, investigators wanted to see if Homan would follow through on his alleged promises to help the agents win contracts. However, the process stalled and was eventually dropped under the Trump administration. How has the White House reacted? The White House dismissed the case as politically driven. “The investigation is yet another example of how the Biden Department of Justice was using its resources to target President Trump’s allies rather than investigate real criminals,” spokesperson Abigail Jackson said. She added that Homan “has not been involved with any contract award decisions” and described him as a “career law enforcement officer and lifelong public servant” who was “doing a phenomenal job on behalf of President Trump and the country.” Who is Tom Homan? Homan has long been a close ally of Donald Trump. He previously served as the director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement during Trump’s first term and returned as the White House’s border czar in the second. He has been one of the most visible figures in Trump’s immigration crackdown and deportation policies.

White House border czar Tom Homan was investigated over a $50,000 bribery sting, but the FBI and Justice Department found no wrongdoing. The case was closed without charges, sparking political controversy.

Why was Trump’s border czar Tom Homan under investigation? What FBI’s secret sting revealed

FBI Director Kash Patel, who is currently under fire over his handling of the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk, is now being mocked on social media after an image of a pep-talk note to himself went viral on the internet. The notes were made during the Congressional hearing on political violence and Jeffrey Epstein’s case files.“Good fight with Swalwell. Hold the line. Brush off their attacks. Rise above next line of partisan attacks,” read the note, which seemed like affirmations. It was written by Patel with a blue pen on personalised stationery labelled ‘Director Patel’ below a black and white logo of the FBI.During the hearing of the House Judiciary Committee, Patel repeatedly clashed with the Democrats, especially with California Rep. Eric Swalwell, over the handling of the Epstein files.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kash Patel&#39;s notes during his congressional testimony as photographed by Getty: &quot;Good fight with Swalwell&quot; <a href="https://t.co/DOZvOxLxJx">pic.twitter.com/DOZvOxLxJx</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1969139227607683485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Social media mocks Kash Patel</h2>The image of the note in Patel’s hand has gone viral on social media, with hundreds of people criticising and mocking the FBI Director in the comments section of the post on X.“Lmfao he's writing words of affirmation to himself,” a social media user wrote. Another joked, “That’s classified and you just leaked it to the entire world. Get a lawyer.” A person said, “What an absolute loser having to write himself motivational notes because no one loves him.” One mocked, “Those are the things he probably conveyed to Trump as wins as he begged to keep his job as FBI director.”“My 2nd grader takes better notes,” a person said. A user said sarcastically, “I mean…who hasn’t written ‘hold the line’ to themselves at a congressional hearing while covering for the largest pedophile sex traffickers of modern times??” One said, “He’s such a loser.” Another slammed him, saying, “He’s so incompetent. It’s almost sad. he has no idea what he’s doing and he looks scared about it every day.” While a person commented, “That list is truly pathetic.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the hearing of the House Judiciary Committee, Patel repeatedly clashed with the Democrats, especially with California Rep. Eric Swalwell, over the handling of the Epstein files.

FBI Director Kash Patel, who is currently under fire over his handling of the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk, is now being mocked on social media after an image of a pep-talk note to himself went viral on the internet. The notes were made during the Congressional hearing on political violence and Jeffrey Epstein’s case files. “Good fight with Swalwell. Hold the line. Brush off their attacks. Rise above next line of partisan attacks,” read the note, which seemed like affirmations. It was written by Patel with a blue pen on personalised stationery labelled ‘Director Patel’ below a black and white logo of the FBI. During the hearing of the House Judiciary Committee, Patel repeatedly clashed with the Democrats, especially with California Rep. Eric Swalwell, over the handling of the Epstein files.

During the hearing of the House Judiciary Committee, Patel repeatedly clashed with the Democrats, especially with California Rep. Eric Swalwell, over the handling of the Epstein files.

‘Such a loser’: Kash Patel trolled after self pep-talk note goes viral – Here’s what it said

FBI Director Kash Patel on Tuesday (Sep 16) pushed back hard against accusations from Senate Democrats that his removal of senior FBI agents was politically motivated, insisting he had no plans to step down despite reports of unease in the White House over his leadership. "I'm not going anywhere. If you want to criticise my 16 years of service, bring it on," Patel said in his opening remarks before the Senate judiciary committee, where he faced lawmakers for the first time since his February confirmation. What followed was a tense, four-hour hearing marked by angry exchanges.<h2>Kash Patel hearing turns into a war of words</h2>Patel accused Democrats of "weaponising intelligence," at one point calling California senator Adam Schiff "a liar" and "a political buffoon at best" after being pressed about the transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell to a lower-security prison. He insisted he had no role in that decision and that a court order prevented him from releasing more documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein.<h2>FBI agents who investigated Trump were fired?</h2>Other Democrats questioned Patel's fitness for the job, citing lawsuits by three fired senior FBI officials who allege the bureau has been politicised. According to the lawsuit, they also claim that at one point Kash Patel stated that he had been instructed to fire agents who investigated Trump. Patel refused to comment on the allegations, saying they were the subject of litigation, but said terminations were only made when agents violated their oath, broke the law, or failed to meet bureau standards."The only way, generally speaking, an individual is terminated at the FBI is if they have violated their oath of office, violated the law, or failed to uphold the standards that we need them to have at the FBI," he said."I don't think you're fit to head the bureau," Senator Cory Booker told him, predicting Patel was "not going to be around long. I think this might be your last oversight hearing". Patel shot back: "That rant of false information does not bring this country together".Patel also resisted providing figures on how many agents had been fired, resigned, or retired since Trump became POTUS, accusing Hawaii senator Mazie Hirono of seeking a "media hit" rather than answers.Patel is due to appear Wednesday (Sep 17) before the House Judiciary Committee, where Democrats have signalled plans to press him further on Epstein and the bureau's independence.

FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday in a tense four-hour hearing, where he denied that he has politicised the bureau and conducted a "campaign of retribution" against those who investigated President Donald Trump.

FBI Director Kash Patel on Tuesday (Sep 16) pushed back hard against accusations from Senate Democrats that his removal of senior FBI agents was politically motivated, insisting he had no plans to step down despite reports of unease in the White House over his leadership. "I'm not going anywhere. If you want to criticise my 16 years of service, bring it on," Patel said in his opening remarks before the Senate judiciary committee, where he faced lawmakers for the first time since his February confirmation. What followed was a tense, four-hour hearing marked by angry exchanges. Kash Patel hearing turns into a war of words Patel accused Democrats of "weaponising intelligence," at one point calling California senator Adam Schiff "a liar" and "a political buffoon at best" after being pressed about the transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell to a lower-security prison. He insisted he had no role in that decision and that a court order prevented him from releasing more documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein. FBI agents who investigated Trump were fired? Other Democrats questioned Patel's fitness for the job, citing lawsuits by three fired senior FBI officials who allege the bureau has been politicised. According to the lawsuit, they also claim that at one point Kash Patel stated that he had been instructed to fire agents who investigated Trump. Patel refused to comment on the allegations, saying they were the subject of litigation, but said terminations were only made when agents violated their oath, broke the law, or failed to meet bureau standards. "The only way, generally speaking, an individual is terminated at the FBI is if they have violated their oath of office, violated the law, or failed to uphold the standards that we need them to have at the FBI," he said. "I don't think you're fit to head the bureau," Senator Cory Booker told him, predicting Patel was "not going to be around long. I think this might be your last oversight hearing". Patel shot back: "That rant of false information does not bring this country together". Patel also resisted providing figures on how many agents had been fired, resigned, or retired since Trump became POTUS, accusing Hawaii senator Mazie Hirono of seeking a "media hit" rather than answers. Patel is due to appear Wednesday (Sep 17) before the House Judiciary Committee, where Democrats have signalled plans to press him further on Epstein and the bureau's independence.

FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday in a tense four-hour hearing, where he denied that he has politicised the bureau and conducted a "campaign of retribution" against those who investigated President Donald Trump.

Kash Patel denies politicising FBI as hearing turns into war of words: 'Liar,' 'buffoon,' 'false rant'

As Kash Patel appeared in the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, US Senator Peter Welch on Tuesday (Sep 16) slammed the FBI Director, accusing him of “promoting himself” rather than cooperating with local law enforcement in the investigation into the assassination of President Donald Trump’s ally Chalie Kirk. The right-wing activist was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday (Sep 10). The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested a twenty-two-year-old, Tyler Robinson.The Democratic senator told reporters that he believes Patel “blew it” with his handling of the investigation. He further claimed that the FBI director is “not up to the job.”“He blew it, and he was about promoting himself, rather than cooperating with local law enforcement, that I think did a really good job,” Welch said, according to CNN. “He’s not up to the job. He’s putting himself first, and the fact is that there should be coordination and cooperation. And what you saw, it was kind of an overreach on the part of him, on a personal basis.”Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where the top Democrat lashed out at him for his handling of the case, including the time when he wrongly claimed that the “subject” was in custody.Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin said Patel said, “Mr. Patel was so anxious to take credit for finding Mr. Kirk’s assassin that he violated one of the basics of effective law enforcement: at critical stages of an investigation, shut up and let the professionals do their job.”The FBI Director said that he ordered the public release of the photos of the suspect, following which an arrest was made just a “few hours later.” He added that the suspect’s father told investigators, “When I saw that video that you released, I recognized it was my son and I confronted him.”

The Democratic senator told reporters that he believes Patel “blew it” with his handling of the investigation. He further claimed that the FBI director is “not up to the job.”

As Kash Patel appeared in the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, US Senator Peter Welch on Tuesday (Sep 16) slammed the FBI Director, accusing him of “promoting himself” rather than cooperating with local law enforcement in the investigation into the assassination of President Donald Trump’s ally Chalie Kirk. The right-wing activist was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday (Sep 10). The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested a twenty-two-year-old, Tyler Robinson. The Democratic senator told reporters that he believes Patel “blew it” with his handling of the investigation. He further claimed that the FBI director is “not up to the job.” “He blew it, and he was about promoting himself, rather than cooperating with local law enforcement, that I think did a really good job,” Welch said, according to CNN. “He’s not up to the job. He’s putting himself first, and the fact is that there should be coordination and cooperation. And what you saw, it was kind of an overreach on the part of him, on a personal basis.” Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where the top Democrat lashed out at him for his handling of the case, including the time when he wrongly claimed that the “subject” was in custody. Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin said Patel said, “Mr. Patel was so anxious to take credit for finding Mr. Kirk’s assassin that he violated one of the basics of effective law enforcement: at critical stages of an investigation, shut up and let the professionals do their job.” The FBI Director said that he ordered the public release of the photos of the suspect, following which an arrest was made just a “few hours later.” He added that the suspect’s father told investigators, “When I saw that video that you released, I recognized it was my son and I confronted him.”

The Democratic senator told reporters that he believes Patel “blew it” with his handling of the investigation. He further claimed that the FBI director is “not up to the job.”

Kash Patel ‘not up to the job’: US senator says FBI director ‘blew it’ with his handling of Charlie Kirk’s killing case

FBI Director Kash Patel, who is currently facing scrutiny over the investigation into the killing of US President Donald Trump’s ally Charlie Kirk, on Tuesday (Sep 16) said that there is no “credible information” in the law enforcement files that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein trafficked young women to other individuals. He further went on to blame the past administrations for committing the “original sin” in the case.Speaking at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Patel said, “There is no credible information, none.” He added, “If there were, I would bring the case yesterday that he trafficked to other individuals.”Targeting former US attorney Alex Acosta, who first prosecuted Epstein’s case and served as a Labor Secretary during Trump’s first term, Patel said, “The original sin in the Epstein case was the way it was initially brought by Mr. Acosta back in 2006. The original case involved a very limited search warrant or set of search warrants, and didn’t take as much investigatory material as it should have seized.”“If I were the FBI director then, it wouldn’t have happened,” he further claimed.Responding to the pressure from Democrats and Republicans to reveal more details about the case during the hearing, Patel said that his answers on the matter were “not going to satisfy many, many, many people.”Patel has previously discussed the case involving the convicted sex offender, who killed himself in prison during the trial related to additional charges, on podcasts and suggested that there has been no cover-up.Earlier in July, the Justice Department said that Epstein did not keep a client list, adding that no further releases of information related to the case would be warranted.“The Department of Justice and the FBI never releases information on investigations that are not credible, and we don’t release the names of victims who aren’t credible, but at the same time, we don’t release the names of victims who were credible,” Patel said.“And so the information we are releasing now is historic, and it is also to the maximum capacity that the law allows. And I know that’s not going to satisfy many, many, many people, but if they wanted it done right, then the investigation from its origination should have been done right, and he [Epstein] should not have been given a ‘Get Out of Jail Free cad’ to do jail on the weekends for 12 hours a day, and he should have been investigated fully for the entirety of his crime and criminal enterprise, not just from 1997 to 2001,” he added.

Earlier in July, the Justice Department said that Epstein did not keep a client list, adding that no further releases of information related to the case would be warranted.

FBI Director Kash Patel, who is currently facing scrutiny over the investigation into the killing of US President Donald Trump’s ally Charlie Kirk, on Tuesday (Sep 16) said that there is no “credible information” in the law enforcement files that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein trafficked young women to other individuals. He further went on to blame the past administrations for committing the “original sin” in the case. Speaking at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Patel said, “There is no credible information, none.” He added, “If there were, I would bring the case yesterday that he trafficked to other individuals.” Targeting former US attorney Alex Acosta, who first prosecuted Epstein’s case and served as a Labor Secretary during Trump’s first term, Patel said, “The original sin in the Epstein case was the way it was initially brought by Mr. Acosta back in 2006. The original case involved a very limited search warrant or set of search warrants, and didn’t take as much investigatory material as it should have seized.” “If I were the FBI director then, it wouldn’t have happened,” he further claimed. Responding to the pressure from Democrats and Republicans to reveal more details about the case during the hearing, Patel said that his answers on the matter were “not going to satisfy many, many, many people.” Patel has previously discussed the case involving the convicted sex offender, who killed himself in prison during the trial related to additional charges, on podcasts and suggested that there has been no cover-up. Earlier in July, the Justice Department said that Epstein did not keep a client list, adding that no further releases of information related to the case would be warranted. “The Department of Justice and the FBI never releases information on investigations that are not credible, and we don’t release the names of victims who aren’t credible, but at the same time, we don’t release the names of victims who were credible,” Patel said. “And so the information we are releasing now is historic, and it is also to the maximum capacity that the law allows. And I know that’s not going to satisfy many, many, many people, but if they wanted it done right, then the investigation from its origination should have been done right, and he [Epstein] should not have been given a ‘Get Out of Jail Free cad’ to do jail on the weekends for 12 hours a day, and he should have been investigated fully for the entirety of his crime and criminal enterprise, not just from 1997 to 2001,” he added.

Earlier in July, the Justice Department said that Epstein did not keep a client list, adding that no further releases of information related to the case would be warranted.

‘If I were the FBI director then...’: Kash Patel takes a dig at former attorney Alex Acosta for ‘original sin’ on Epstein case

FBI Director Kash Patel appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday (September 16) for the hearing on the handling of Charlie Kirk's assassination case. In his opening statement, the FBI Director said that it is important for the agency to be as transparent as possible.&nbsp;Patel said that under his direction, the photos of the suspect were released in public after which an arrest was made just a "few hours later".&nbsp;Patel said that the suspect’s father told investigators, “When I saw that video that you released, I recognized it was my son and I confronted him.” “I’m not going anywhere. If you want to criticize my 16 years of service, bring it on," the FBI Director added in his statement. Republican Chairman Chuck Grassley, while opening the hearing, called Kirk "a man of God, faith, family and country.”&nbsp;'Shut up and let the professionals do their job'&nbsp;During the hearing, the &nbsp;top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee lashed out at Patel for his early handling of the case, including the time when he wrongly claimed that the "subject" was in custody.

Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin said Patel said, “Mr. Patel was so anxious to take credit for finding Mr. Kirk’s assassin that he violated one of the basics of effective law enforcement: at critical stages of an investigation, shut up and let the professionals do their job."

Patel said that under his direction, the photos of the suspect were released in public after which an arrest was made just a few hours later.

FBI Director Kash Patel appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday (September 16) for the hearing on the handling of Charlie Kirk's assassination case. In his opening statement, the FBI Director said that it is important for the agency to be as transparent as possible. Patel said that under his direction, the photos of the suspect were released in public after which an arrest was made just a "few hours later". Patel said that the suspect’s father told investigators, “When I saw that video that you released, I recognized it was my son and I confronted him.” “I’m not going anywhere. If you want to criticize my 16 years of service, bring it on," the FBI Director added in his statement. Republican Chairman Chuck Grassley, while opening the hearing, called Kirk "a man of God, faith, family and country.” 'Shut up and let the professionals do their job' During the hearing, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee lashed out at Patel for his early handling of the case, including the time when he wrongly claimed that the "subject" was in custody.

Patel said that under his direction, the photos of the suspect were released in public after which an arrest was made just a "few hours later".&nbsp;

‘I’m not going anywhere, bring it on': Kash Patel’s hearing on Charlie Kirk’s case begins. Here’s what FBI Diector says

FBI Director Kash Patel faces a Senate panel on Tuesday amid criticism of his handling of the investigation into the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and the case of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee are also expected to grill Patel over an ongoing purge of FBI ranks of agents seen as disloyal to President Donald Trump. Patel has come under fire from both the right and the left since being named by Trump to head the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the nation's premier law enforcement agency.&nbsp;He angered many Trump supporters with a memo in July that effectively closed the investigation into the activities of Epstein, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking of underage girls.In the memo, the FBI and Justice Department said that the well-connected financier had committed suicide, did not blackmail any prominent figures, and did not keep a "client list."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kash-patel-to-be-sacked-fbi-director-faces-scrutiny-over-investigation-into-charlie-kirk-s-killing-1757942400223">Kash Patel to be sacked? FBI Director faces scrutiny over investigation into Charlie Kirk’s killing</a>&nbsp;Trump's supporters have been obsessed with the Epstein case for years and held as an article of faith that "deep state" elites have been protecting Epstein associates in the Democratic Party and Hollywood.&nbsp;Trump's one-time close relationship with Epstein has also proved to be potent fodder for his political opponents, with the president and his allies seeking to downplay the whole saga as a Democratic "hoax."&nbsp;Patel has also been heavily criticised for his actions in the immediate aftermath of last week's assassination of Kirk during a speaking event at a Utah university.&nbsp;Patel announced the arrest of a suspect a few hours after the shooting, only to turn around two hours later and say that individual had been released and the manhunt was continuing.&nbsp;The actual suspected assailant, Tyler Robinson, was arrested 33 hours after the shooting. Robinson is to be formally charged in Provo, Utah, on Tuesday with the murder of Kirk, the founder of the influential conservative youth political group Turning Point USA.<h2> Right man?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Among those critical of Patel in the wake of the bungled announcement is conservative activist Christopher Rufo, who wrote on X whether "it is time for Republicans to assess whether Kash Patel is the right man to run the FBI."&nbsp;According to Fox News, Patel's relationship with Attorney General Pam Bondi is particularly strained, although he continues to enjoy the confidence of the White House for the time being.&nbsp;Since taking office in January, Trump has taken a number of punitive measures against his perceived enemies, purging government officials deemed to be disloyal, targeting FBI agents and law firms involved in past cases against him, and pulling federal funding from universities.&nbsp;Among those summarily dismissed from government service have been scores of FBI agents, including three former senior bureau officials who filed a lawsuit against Patel last week over their firing.&nbsp;The former agents said they were victims of a "campaign of retribution" over a perceived "failure to demonstrate sufficient political loyalty."&nbsp;"Patel not only acted unlawfully but deliberately chose to prioritise politicising the FBI over protecting the American people," they said.&nbsp;Following his appearance before the Senate panel on Tuesday, Patel will testify before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.

Trump's supporters have been obsessed with the Epstein case for years and held as an article of faith that "deep state" elites have been protecting Epstein associates in the Democratic Party and Hollywood.

FBI Director Kash Patel faces a Senate panel on Tuesday amid criticism of his handling of the investigation into the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and the case of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee are also expected to grill Patel over an ongoing purge of FBI ranks of agents seen as disloyal to President Donald Trump. Patel has come under fire from both the right and the left since being named by Trump to head the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the nation's premier law enforcement agency. He angered many Trump supporters with a memo in July that effectively closed the investigation into the activities of Epstein, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking of underage girls. In the memo, the FBI and Justice Department said that the well-connected financier had committed suicide, did not blackmail any prominent figures, and did not keep a "client list." Also read: Kash Patel to be sacked? FBI Director faces scrutiny over investigation into Charlie Kirk’s killing Trump's supporters have been obsessed with the Epstein case for years and held as an article of faith that "deep state" elites have been protecting Epstein associates in the Democratic Party and Hollywood. Trump's one-time close relationship with Epstein has also proved to be potent fodder for his political opponents, with the president and his allies seeking to downplay the whole saga as a Democratic "hoax." Patel has also been heavily criticised for his actions in the immediate aftermath of last week's assassination of Kirk during a speaking event at a Utah university. Patel announced the arrest of a suspect a few hours after the shooting, only to turn around two hours later and say that individual had been released and the manhunt was continuing. The actual suspected assailant, Tyler Robinson, was arrested 33 hours after the shooting. Robinson is to be formally charged in Provo, Utah, on Tuesday with the murder of Kirk, the founder of the influential conservative youth political group Turning Point USA. Right man? Among those critical of Patel in the wake of the bungled announcement is conservative activist Christopher Rufo, who wrote on X whether "it is time for Republicans to assess whether Kash Patel is the right man to run the FBI." According to Fox News, Patel's relationship with Attorney General Pam Bondi is particularly strained, although he continues to enjoy the confidence of the White House for the time being. Since taking office in January, Trump has taken a number of punitive measures against his perceived enemies, purging government officials deemed to be disloyal, targeting FBI agents and law firms involved in past cases against him, and pulling federal funding from universities. Among those summarily dismissed from government service have been scores of FBI agents, including three former senior bureau officials who filed a lawsuit against Patel last week over their firing. The former agents said they were victims of a "campaign of retribution" over a perceived "failure to demonstrate sufficient political loyalty." "Patel not only acted unlawfully but deliberately chose to prioritise politicising the FBI over protecting the American people," they said. Following his appearance before the Senate panel on Tuesday, Patel will testify before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.

Trump's supporters have been obsessed with the Epstein case for years and held as an article of faith that "deep state" elites have been protecting Epstein associates in the Democratic Party and Hollywood.

Charlie Kirk to Jeffery Epstein: FBI Chief Kash Patel to be grilled over investigation

Tyler Robinson, 22, accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah university, has been linked to evidence found at the scene through DNA sequencing, FBI Director Kash Patel said on Monday. Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. Patel said that DNA matching Robinson was found on a towel wrapped around a firearm that was discarded in a wooded area near the university. Besides, matching DNA was also found on a screwdriver on the rooftop, he added.&nbsp;“I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody,” Patel said.The FBI director further said that only the towel wrapped around the firearm has been processed so far, and the gun is being analysed by experts in Maryland.&nbsp;Robinson is scheduled to appear in state court on Tuesday. He is being held without bail at the Utah County Jail on charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice.The Utah County Sheriff’s Office told reporters that Robinson is being kept in a special housing unit and will remain under special watch while undergoing a mental health evaluation, a process expected to take several days.&nbsp;<h2>‘Suspect left a message making clear his intent’</h2>&nbsp;Patel said the suspect left a message making clear his intent and wrote that he had the “opportunity to take out” Kirk and added, “I’m going to take it.”&nbsp;Speaking to Fox News, Patel explained that the message was composed before the shooting on Wednesday.Patel also defended his record in handling the case after he was criticised for alleged “grandstanding” and the announcement that the subject was in custody shortly before that person was released without charge.“The job of the FBI is not just to manhunt the actual suspect who did the killing, or suspects, but it’s also to eliminate targets and eliminate subjects who are not involved in the process, and that’s what we were doing,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Robinson’s actions were premeditated’</h2>&nbsp;Patel also said in an interview on “Fox &amp; Friends” that Robinson’s actions were premeditated and based on his political, left-leaning beliefs.&nbsp;“His family has collectively told investigators that he subscribed to left-wing ideology, and even more so in these last couple of years, and he had a text message exchange with another individual in which he claimed that he had an opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and he was going to do it because of his hatred for what Charlie stood for,” he said.Robinson was a “squeaky clean” and “considerate” boy from suburban Utah who had recently developed an interest in politics, family members and neighbours said.&nbsp;The FBI director’s decision to share such details in a live interview is a departure from the normal standards, as officials at the FBI and the Justice Department avoid making investigative evidence public ahead of prosecution.&nbsp;WATCH: U.S. President Donald Trump Threatens to Declare National Emergency in D.C.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-president-donald-trump-threatens-to-declare-national-emergency-in-d-c-1757957712911/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-president-donald-trump-threatens-to-declare-national-emergency-in-d-c-1757957712911/embed</a>&nbsp;

FBI director Kash Patel’s decision to share such details in a live interview is a departure from the normal standards, as officials at the FBI and the Justice Department avoid making investigative evidence public ahead of prosecution.

Tyler Robinson, 22, accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah university, has been linked to evidence found at the scene through DNA sequencing, FBI Director Kash Patel said on Monday. Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. Patel said that DNA matching Robinson was found on a towel wrapped around a firearm that was discarded in a wooded area near the university. Besides, matching DNA was also found on a screwdriver on the rooftop, he added. “I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody,” Patel said. The FBI director further said that only the towel wrapped around the firearm has been processed so far, and the gun is being analysed by experts in Maryland. Robinson is scheduled to appear in state court on Tuesday. He is being held without bail at the Utah County Jail on charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice. The Utah County Sheriff’s Office told reporters that Robinson is being kept in a special housing unit and will remain under special watch while undergoing a mental health evaluation, a process expected to take several days. ‘Suspect left a message making clear his intent’ Patel said the suspect left a message making clear his intent and wrote that he had the “opportunity to take out” Kirk and added, “I’m going to take it.” Speaking to Fox News, Patel explained that the message was composed before the shooting on Wednesday. Patel also defended his record in handling the case after he was criticised for alleged “grandstanding” and the announcement that the subject was in custody shortly before that person was released without charge. “The job of the FBI is not just to manhunt the actual suspect who did the killing, or suspects, but it’s also to eliminate targets and eliminate subjects who are not involved in the process, and that’s what we were doing,” he said. ‘Robinson’s actions were premeditated’ Patel also said in an interview on “Fox & Friends” that Robinson’s actions were premeditated and based on his political, left-leaning beliefs. “His family has collectively told investigators that he subscribed to left-wing ideology, and even more so in these last couple of years, and he had a text message exchange with another individual in which he claimed that he had an opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and he was going to do it because of his hatred for what Charlie stood for,” he said. Robinson was a “squeaky clean” and “considerate” boy from suburban Utah who had recently developed an interest in politics, family members and neighbours said. The FBI director’s decision to share such details in a live interview is a departure from the normal standards, as officials at the FBI and the Justice Department avoid making investigative evidence public ahead of prosecution. WATCH: U.S. President Donald Trump Threatens to Declare National Emergency in D.C. https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-president-donald-trump-threatens-to-declare-national-emergency-in-d-c-1757957712911/embed

FBI director Kash Patel’s decision to share such details in a live interview is a departure from the normal standards, as officials at the FBI and the Justice Department avoid making investigative evidence public ahead of prosecution.

Charlie Kirk murder suspect linked to crime through DNA match: FBI director Kash Patel

US President Donald Trump has publicly defended FBI Director Kash Patel after criticism over the bureau’s handling of the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk. “I am very proud of the FBI,” Trump told Fox News on Saturday. “Kash, and everyone else, they have done a great job.”<h2>Who was arrested?</h2>Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sick-enough-to-celebrate-his-death-why-people-are-losing-their-jobs-facing-doxxing-over-social-media-posts-about-charlie-kirk-1757838099662">'Sick enough to celebrate his death': Why people are losing their jobs, facing doxxing over social media posts about Charlie Kirk</a><h2>Why is Patel facing criticism?</h2>Patel has been under fire from both current and former FBI officials, as well as some MAGA supporters online, over his handling of the case. On Wednesday, he wrote on social media that a “subject” was in custody. Just two hours later, he said the individual had been released after interrogation, sparking confusion and frustration among critics.<h2>What is the White House saying?</h2>Despite the backlash, the White House is standing firmly behind Patel. Communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement, “Director Patel and his team worked night and day to find this murderer and bring him to justice. Anyone who doubts his resolve and dedication, especially when Charlie was such a close friend to him, simply is using this extremely sad moment in a disgusting act of political gamesmanship.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charlie-kirk-shooting-sparks-panic-in-us-false-shooter-reports-cause-chaos-at-naval-academy-and-umass-as-manhunt-for-suspect-continues-1757660486487">Charlie Kirk shooting sparks panic in US: False shooter reports cause chaos at Naval Academy and UMass as manhunt for suspect continues</a><h2>What happens next?</h2>Patel is set to appear before Congress this week, where he is expected to be questioned over the investigation and wider criticisms, including his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. The hearing could prove a major test for the FBI director as the political fallout over Kirk’s killing continues.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week.

US President Donald Trump has publicly defended FBI Director Kash Patel after criticism over the bureau’s handling of the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk. “I am very proud of the FBI,” Trump told Fox News on Saturday. “Kash, and everyone else, they have done a great job.” Who was arrested? Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week. Also read: 'Sick enough to celebrate his death': Why people are losing their jobs, facing doxxing over social media posts about Charlie Kirk Why is Patel facing criticism? Patel has been under fire from both current and former FBI officials, as well as some MAGA supporters online, over his handling of the case. On Wednesday, he wrote on social media that a “subject” was in custody. Just two hours later, he said the individual had been released after interrogation, sparking confusion and frustration among critics. What is the White House saying? Despite the backlash, the White House is standing firmly behind Patel. Communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement, “Director Patel and his team worked night and day to find this murderer and bring him to justice. Anyone who doubts his resolve and dedication, especially when Charlie was such a close friend to him, simply is using this extremely sad moment in a disgusting act of political gamesmanship.” Also read: Charlie Kirk shooting sparks panic in US: False shooter reports cause chaos at Naval Academy and UMass as manhunt for suspect continues What happens next? Patel is set to appear before Congress this week, where he is expected to be questioned over the investigation and wider criticisms, including his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. The hearing could prove a major test for the FBI director as the political fallout over Kirk’s killing continues.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week.

‘Very proud’: Trump backs FBI chief Kash Patel after Charlie Kirk assassination case

Patel concluded his remarks with an emotional farewell: “Rest now, brother. We have the watch, and I'll see you in Valhalla". The comment immediately drew attention for its cultural reference and its tone.

Patel concluded his remarks with an emotional farewell: “Rest now, brother. We have the watch, and I'll see you in Valhalla". The comment immediately drew attention for its cultural reference and its tone.

What is Valhalla and why Kash Patel’s tribute to Charlie Kirk sparked controversy?

The gunman who killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk has not been caught, despite hours of searching, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. Confusion deepened after FBI Director Kash Patel said a suspect was in custody, only to later admit the man had been released following questioning. “Our investigation continues and we will continue to release information in the interest of transparency,” Patel said.<h2>Wrong suspects released</h2>The first man detained, 71-year-old George Zinn, was later ruled out as the shooter. Another man, Zachariah Qureshi, was also taken into custody and questioned but released soon after. The FBI now says the search for the real gunman remains active.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charlie-kirk-s-last-post-on-ukrainian-refugee-s-stabbing-goes-viral-after-his-death-fbi-says-subject-in-custody-1757545073636">Charlie Kirk's last post on Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska's stabbing goes viral; FBI says 'subject in custody'</a><h2>Kirk shot during student event</h2>Kirk, 31, was speaking to a crowd of about 3,000 students at Utah Valley University when he was shot once in the neck. The bullet came from the Losee Centre, around 200 yards away, a university spokesperson told The New York Times. The Turning Point USA founder died shortly afterwards. US President Donald Trump later confirmed his death.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-patriot-youth-whisperer-and-trusted-trump-ally-who-was-charlie-kirk-and-what-were-his-views-on-gun-violence-1757543566510">Right-wing's 'youth whisperer' and trusted Trump ally: Who was Charlie Kirk?</a><h2>Governor calls it a political assassination</h2>Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the attack as a “political assassination” and vowed justice. “To whoever did this, we will find you, we will try you and we will hold you accountable to the furthest extent of the law,” he said, adding that Utah still enforces the death penalty. He also recalled Kirk as “first and foremost, a husband and a dad to two children,” calling it a “dark day for our state” and a “tragic day for our nation.”<h2>Heavy security failed to stop attack</h2>Utah Valley police chief Jeff Long said six officers were on duty for the event, alongside Kirk’s own security detail. “You try to get your bases covered, and unfortunately, today, we didn’t,” Long said. “Because of that, we have this tragic incident,” he added. Videos showed the moment Kirk was struck, as blood poured from his neck and students scrambled for safety.

The gunman who killed Charlie Kirk remains at large. Two suspects were wrongly detained and released. The FBI confirmed the investigation is ongoing, despite earlier confusion over an arrest.

The gunman who killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk has not been caught, despite hours of searching, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. Confusion deepened after FBI Director Kash Patel said a suspect was in custody, only to later admit the man had been released following questioning. “Our investigation continues and we will continue to release information in the interest of transparency,” Patel said. Wrong suspects released The first man detained, 71-year-old George Zinn, was later ruled out as the shooter. Another man, Zachariah Qureshi, was also taken into custody and questioned but released soon after. The FBI now says the search for the real gunman remains active. Also read: Charlie Kirk's last post on Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska's stabbing goes viral; FBI says 'subject in custody' Kirk shot during student event Kirk, 31, was speaking to a crowd of about 3,000 students at Utah Valley University when he was shot once in the neck. The bullet came from the Losee Centre, around 200 yards away, a university spokesperson told The New York Times. The Turning Point USA founder died shortly afterwards. US President Donald Trump later confirmed his death. Also read: Right-wing's 'youth whisperer' and trusted Trump ally: Who was Charlie Kirk? Governor calls it a political assassination Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the attack as a “political assassination” and vowed justice. “To whoever did this, we will find you, we will try you and we will hold you accountable to the furthest extent of the law,” he said, adding that Utah still enforces the death penalty. He also recalled Kirk as “first and foremost, a husband and a dad to two children,” calling it a “dark day for our state” and a “tragic day for our nation.” Heavy security failed to stop attack Utah Valley police chief Jeff Long said six officers were on duty for the event, alongside Kirk’s own security detail. “You try to get your bases covered, and unfortunately, today, we didn’t,” Long said. “Because of that, we have this tragic incident,” he added. Videos showed the moment Kirk was struck, as blood poured from his neck and students scrambled for safety.

The gunman who killed Charlie Kirk remains at large. Two suspects were wrongly detained and released. The FBI confirmed the investigation is ongoing, despite earlier confusion over an arrest.

Hunt for Charlie Kirk's assassin underway: Second suspect released, as Utah governor warns of 'death penalty' for the culprit

The FBI has searched the home of John Bolton, Donald Trump’s former national security adviser and now outspoken critic, as part of a classified documents investigation, according to reports. Federal agents arrived at Bolton’s residence in the Washington DC suburbs around 7:00 AM on Friday, the Associated Press reported. When contacted, Bolton reportedly told CNN he was unaware of the activity taking place at his home.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-just-suggest-ukraine-should-have-been-allowed-to-attack-russia-in-slamming-biden-he-said-it-s-impossible-to-win-a-war-without-1755857894394">Did Trump just suggest Ukraine should have been ALLOWED TO ATTACK Russia?</a>Reacting to raid at John Bolton's home, US President Donald Trump said, "I'm not a fan of John Bolton. He's a real sort of lowlife... I know nothing about it. I just saw it this morning... I tell Pam and I tell the group I don't want to know about it. You have to do what you have to do.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“Not a fan of John Bolton. He&#39;s a real sort of lowlife”: Donald Trump reacts after FBI searches home of the former NSA . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JohnBolton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JohnBolton</a> <a href="https://t.co/3x8jsX8ZS1">pic.twitter.com/3x8jsX8ZS1</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1958907110076358669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>FBI chief Kash Patel's cryptic message</h2>FBI director Kash Patel appeared to hint at the operation on Friday morning, writing on X, “NO ONE is above the law… @FBI agents on mission.” “The FBI is conducting court authorized activity in the area. There is no threat to public safety. We have no further comment,” a spokesperson for the bureau told The Washington Post.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-john-bolton-why-fbi-raided-home-of-trumps-former-national-security-adviser-1755865735593">Who is John Bolton? Why FBI raided home of Trump's ex- national security adviser</a><h2>Who is John Bolton?</h2>John Bolton served as Trump’s third national security adviser for 17 months before falling out with him over US policy on Iran, Afghanistan and North Korea. The Trump administration later attempted, unsuccessfully, to block the release of Bolton’s memoir, which it claimed contained classified material. Trump has also targeted Bolton directly since returning to office this year. On his first day back, he revoked the security clearances of more than 40 former intelligence officials, including Bolton, and later removed his government-provided security detail.

The FBI searched John Bolton’s home early Friday in a classified documents probe. Bolton was reportedly unaware. FBI director Kash Patel hinted at the operation, emphasising that no one is above the law.

The FBI has searched the home of John Bolton, Donald Trump’s former national security adviser and now outspoken critic, as part of a classified documents investigation, according to reports. Federal agents arrived at Bolton’s residence in the Washington DC suburbs around 7:00 AM on Friday, the Associated Press reported. When contacted, Bolton reportedly told CNN he was unaware of the activity taking place at his home. Also read: Did Trump just suggest Ukraine should have been ALLOWED TO ATTACK Russia? Reacting to raid at John Bolton's home, US President Donald Trump said, "I'm not a fan of John Bolton. He's a real sort of lowlife... I know nothing about it. I just saw it this morning... I tell Pam and I tell the group I don't want to know about it. You have to do what you have to do.

The FBI searched John Bolton’s home early Friday in a classified documents probe. Bolton was reportedly unaware. FBI director Kash Patel hinted at the operation, emphasising that no one is above the law.

‘No one is above the law’: FBI raids home of ex-Trump aide John Bolton

After Federal Bureau of Investigation director Kash Patel and the US Justice Department issued a memo on the Epstein case, Patel's girlfriend Alexis Wilkins has been involved in several conspiracy theories, one of which accused her of being Israel's Mossad agent, sent to manipulate the FBI director. Wilkins has now been pushing back the theories and rumours, describing it as "incredibly disheartening." The 26-year-old singer has been slammed on the internet, as some called her "honeypotting" Kash Patel on behalf of another nation, according to a New York Post report. Alexis, while speaking on the "Megyn Kelly Show", said that the critics twisted her background, adding that, "I think people see certain pieces and I get it." “They want to connect things, they want to justify, some of the pain that they’ve been through watching the last four years, and there are pieces of this that, you know, I can understand,” she said. She added, "I think that they’ve taken just these pieces of evidence that you laid out and tied them together in all of the wrong ways.” All this comes after the US Justice Department closed the Epstein case and concluded that there was no foul play in Epstein's death. Since many people believe Epstein was a Mossad agent, they assumed that there is Israeli pressure on the US cover-up of Epstein files and Wilkins is the "honeypot". "The fact that it's accusing me of manipulating the person I love is a horrible accusation," Alexis said on Megyn Kelly's show. Some of the theories were based on Wilkin's past, as she was connected with PragerU, a conservative media nonprofit. Its CEO, Marissa Streit, once served in the Israeli army. But, Kash Patel's girlfriend has no ties with Israel and is Armenian and Christian. When Megyn Kelly asked her directly if she was a spy, Wilkins firmly responded, “Definitely not, that is a firm no on that front.” Earlier last month, Wilkins took to X, and while expressing frustration, called the accusations "insanely ridiculous"."It’s disappointing to see people with no real contribution to political discourse spin ridiculous conspiracy theories out of thin air,” she wrote. “These accusations are obviously insanely ridiculous.”<h2>FBI director frustrated</h2>When Megyn Kelly asked Wilkins about the FBI director's reaction to the online criticism, she said that Patel is fine with people coming after him, but he got frustrated when it came to her. She added that Patel is not allowed to speak about his work with her and she knows nothing more than what the public gets to know. "He was very unhappy to say the least," Wilkins said. Addressing why there's very little information about her personal life, she said that he wanted that "childhood" side to be protected, not because she is a "spy" for any government.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old singer has been slammed on the internet, as some called her "honeypotting" Kash Patel on behalf of another nation, according to a New York Post report.

After Federal Bureau of Investigation director Kash Patel and the US Justice Department issued a memo on the Epstein case, Patel's girlfriend Alexis Wilkins has been involved in several conspiracy theories, one of which accused her of being Israel's Mossad agent, sent to manipulate the FBI director. Wilkins has now been pushing back the theories and rumours, describing it as "incredibly disheartening." The 26-year-old singer has been slammed on the internet, as some called her "honeypotting" Kash Patel on behalf of another nation, according to a New York Post report. Alexis, while speaking on the "Megyn Kelly Show", said that the critics twisted her background, adding that, "I think people see certain pieces and I get it." “They want to connect things, they want to justify, some of the pain that they’ve been through watching the last four years, and there are pieces of this that, you know, I can understand,” she said. She added, "I think that they’ve taken just these pieces of evidence that you laid out and tied them together in all of the wrong ways.” All this comes after the US Justice Department closed the Epstein case and concluded that there was no foul play in Epstein's death. Since many people believe Epstein was a Mossad agent, they assumed that there is Israeli pressure on the US cover-up of Epstein files and Wilkins is the "honeypot". "The fact that it's accusing me of manipulating the person I love is a horrible accusation," Alexis said on Megyn Kelly's show. Some of the theories were based on Wilkin's past, as she was connected with PragerU, a conservative media nonprofit. Its CEO, Marissa Streit, once served in the Israeli army. But, Kash Patel's girlfriend has no ties with Israel and is Armenian and Christian. When Megyn Kelly asked her directly if she was a spy, Wilkins firmly responded, “Definitely not, that is a firm no on that front.” Earlier last month, Wilkins took to X, and while expressing frustration, called the accusations "insanely ridiculous". "It’s disappointing to see people with no real contribution to political discourse spin ridiculous conspiracy theories out of thin air,” she wrote. “These accusations are obviously insanely ridiculous.” FBI director frustrated When Megyn Kelly asked Wilkins about the FBI director's reaction to the online criticism, she said that Patel is fine with people coming after him, but he got frustrated when it came to her. She added that Patel is not allowed to speak about his work with her and she knows nothing more than what the public gets to know. "He was very unhappy to say the least," Wilkins said. Addressing why there's very little information about her personal life, she said that he wanted that "childhood" side to be protected, not because she is a "spy" for any government.

The 26-year-old singer has been slammed on the internet, as some called her "honeypotting" Kash Patel on behalf of another nation, according to a New York Post report.

Was Kash Patel's girlfriend Alexis Wilkins 'honeypotting' FBI director? Here's how she reacted to Mossad spy claims

FBI Director Kash Patel uncovered a hidden room inside the bureau’s headquarters filled with “burn bags” containing thousands of sensitive documents, Fox News Digital reported. These bags are normally used to destroy highly classified material.One of the key items found, according to sources, was a classified annex to former special counsel John Durham’s final report. This annex reportedly contains the intelligence Durham reviewed during his investigation into the Trump–Russia probe. Sources told Fox News Digital that Patel and his team discovered the room within a secure compartmented information facility (SCIF) inside the Hoover Building.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trucks-launchpad-for-russian-kamikaze-drones-how-american-pickup-trucks-are-helping-russia-bomb-ukraine-despite-sanctions-1753831024342">US trucks launchpad for Russian Kamikaze drones? How American pickup trucks are helping Russia bomb Ukraine, despite sanctions</a><h2>What is in the classified annex?</h2>According to sources, the annex includes intelligence from foreign sources suggesting that the FBI was expected to push the Trump–Russia collusion narrative before it officially launched its Crossfire Hurricane investigation in July 2016. The intelligence reportedly “predicted the FBI’s next move with alarming specificity,” a source familiar with the annex told Fox News Digital.“The release of the annex will lend more credibility to the assertion that there was a coordinated plan inside the US government to help the Clinton campaign stir up controversy connecting Trump to Russia,” the source claimed.The annex is being declassified in coordination with CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and acting NSA Director William Hartman. It will be handed over to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley for public release.<h2>Was this room hidden from other FBI directors?</h2>Patel spoke about the discovery in a June interview with Joe Rogan, describing the room as one “Comey and others hid from the world.” “Just think about this,” he told Rogan. “Me, as director of the FBI, the former ‘Russiagate guy,’ when I first got to the bureau, found a room… full of documents and computer hard drives that no one had ever seen or heard of,” he added. It remains unclear why the room and its contents were never disclosed.<h2>What is Crossfire Hurricane and why does it matter?</h2>Crossfire Hurricane was the FBI’s codename for its 2016 investigation into possible coordination between Donald Trump’s campaign and Russia. The investigation was launched shortly after the FBI received the now-discredited Steele dossier, which was commissioned by Fusion GPS and funded by Hillary Clinton’s campaign through the law firm Perkins Coie.Patel, then a senior counsel on the House Intelligence Committee, played a major role in exposing the use of the dossier and alleged government surveillance abuses, including the improper monitoring of former Trump adviser Carter Page. The DOJ inspector general later confirmed that the Steele dossier formed a key part of the applications for FISA warrants on Page.<h2>What happens next?</h2>Patel has turned the newly discovered documents over to Senator Grassley, who has been leading an inquiry into the origins of the Russia probe. His team is reviewing the annex and is expected to release the declassified version soon. Meanwhile, Patel has launched separate criminal investigations into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey, based on criminal referrals.WION could not independently verify the authority of the claims reported by Fox News Digital.

FBI Director Kash Patel found a hidden SCIF room at headquarters with “burn bags” of sensitive documents, including a classified annex to John Durham’s Trump–Russia probe report, Fox News reported.

FBI Director Kash Patel uncovered a hidden room inside the bureau’s headquarters filled with “burn bags” containing thousands of sensitive documents, Fox News Digital reported. These bags are normally used to destroy highly classified material. One of the key items found, according to sources, was a classified annex to former special counsel John Durham’s final report. This annex reportedly contains the intelligence Durham reviewed during his investigation into the Trump–Russia probe. Sources told Fox News Digital that Patel and his team discovered the room within a secure compartmented information facility (SCIF) inside the Hoover Building. Also read: US trucks launchpad for Russian Kamikaze drones? How American pickup trucks are helping Russia bomb Ukraine, despite sanctions What is in the classified annex? According to sources, the annex includes intelligence from foreign sources suggesting that the FBI was expected to push the Trump–Russia collusion narrative before it officially launched its Crossfire Hurricane investigation in July 2016. The intelligence reportedly “predicted the FBI’s next move with alarming specificity,” a source familiar with the annex told Fox News Digital. “The release of the annex will lend more credibility to the assertion that there was a coordinated plan inside the US government to help the Clinton campaign stir up controversy connecting Trump to Russia,” the source claimed. The annex is being declassified in coordination with CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and acting NSA Director William Hartman. It will be handed over to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley for public release. Was this room hidden from other FBI directors? Patel spoke about the discovery in a June interview with Joe Rogan, describing the room as one “Comey and others hid from the world.” “Just think about this,” he told Rogan. “Me, as director of the FBI, the former ‘Russiagate guy,’ when I first got to the bureau, found a room… full of documents and computer hard drives that no one had ever seen or heard of,” he added. It remains unclear why the room and its contents were never disclosed. What is Crossfire Hurricane and why does it matter? Crossfire Hurricane was the FBI’s codename for its 2016 investigation into possible coordination between Donald Trump’s campaign and Russia. The investigation was launched shortly after the FBI received the now-discredited Steele dossier, which was commissioned by Fusion GPS and funded by Hillary Clinton’s campaign through the law firm Perkins Coie. Patel, then a senior counsel on the House Intelligence Committee, played a major role in exposing the use of the dossier and alleged government surveillance abuses, including the improper monitoring of former Trump adviser Carter Page. The DOJ inspector general later confirmed that the Steele dossier formed a key part of the applications for FISA warrants on Page. What happens next? Patel has turned the newly discovered documents over to Senator Grassley, who has been leading an inquiry into the origins of the Russia probe. His team is reviewing the annex and is expected to release the declassified version soon. Meanwhile, Patel has launched separate criminal investigations into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey, based on criminal referrals. WION could not independently verify the authority of the claims reported by Fox News Digital.

FBI Director Kash Patel found a hidden SCIF room at headquarters with “burn bags” of sensitive documents, including a classified annex to John Durham’s Trump–Russia probe report, Fox News reported.

Hidden FBI room found? Kash Patel uncovers ‘burn bags’ tied to Trump–Russia probe

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing sharp criticism from Trump’s own supporters after dismissing rumours surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s death. Patel denied claims of a cover-up and rejected the idea that he planned to resign over the controversy. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he said, “The conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been. It’s an honour to serve the President of the United States, and I’ll continue to do so for as long as he calls on me.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-trump-assassination-attempt-have-been-stopped-secret-service-officials-were-aware-of-threat-to-trump-s-life-says-report-1752410748611">Could Trump assassination attempt have been stopped? Secret Service officials were aware of threat to Trump’s life, says report</a>Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein files, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier.<h2>Internal tensions rise inside Trump’s FBI team</h2>Patel’s comments followed reports of growing tensions between him, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, and Attorney General Pam Bondi. According to The New York Times, Bongino clashed with Bondi during a meeting at the White House last week and later threatened to resign. “It’s me or her. She goes or I go,” Bongino reportedly told colleagues, according to Axios.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-trump-to-announce-major-russia-move-tomorrow-what-s-next-for-kyiv-and-moscow-1752408988579">Trump to announce ‘major’ Russia move tomorrow: What's next for Kyiv and Moscow?</a>The disagreement stemmed from Bondi’s failure to deliver more documents linked to the Epstein case. Bongino was said to be frustrated with the lack of progress and transparency, fuelling frustration among MAGA supporters already suspicious of the FBI’s handling of the files.<h2>MAGA supporters accuse Patel of hiding Epstein documents</h2>Patel’s public denial only added fuel to the fire. A number of right-wing commentators lashed out on social media, accusing him of being part of a cover-up or even being named in the documents himself. “Sounds like you might be in the files, Kash,” wrote the account Polling USA. “Release the Epstein files!” posted Republicans Against Trump, referencing Patel’s own previous comments that the files were under the “direct control of the FBI director.”Right-wing lawyer Robert Barnes also criticised Patel, posting: “It was YOU who said Bill Gates is in #EpsteinFiles &amp; now YOU are hiding those files. Inexcusable!”<h2>Trump calls for focus on ‘real priorities’</h2>Donald Trump stepped in on Saturday in an attempt to ease the tension. In a post on Truth Social, he appeared to back Patel while calling on his base to focus their energy on Democrat corruption and voter fraud instead of conspiracy theories.“We are about to achieve more in 6 months than any other Administration has achieved in over 100 years… Kash Patel, and the FBI, must be focused on investigating Voter Fraud, Political Corruption, ActBlue, The Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020… instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein,” Trump wrote. He also defended Bondi, adding: “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB, SHE’S GREAT!”<h2>What next for the FBI and the Epstein files?</h2>So far, neither Bondi nor Bongino has issued any public comment. The FBI also did not respond to media requests for a statement. Meanwhile, the internal fallout has revealed growing cracks within Trump’s team, especially as pressure from the MAGA base intensifies.

Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein documents, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier.

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing sharp criticism from Trump’s own supporters after dismissing rumours surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s death. Patel denied claims of a cover-up and rejected the idea that he planned to resign over the controversy. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he said, “The conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been. It’s an honour to serve the President of the United States, and I’ll continue to do so for as long as he calls on me.” Also read: Could Trump assassination attempt have been stopped? Secret Service officials were aware of threat to Trump’s life, says report Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein files, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier. Internal tensions rise inside Trump’s FBI team Patel’s comments followed reports of growing tensions between him, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, and Attorney General Pam Bondi. According to The New York Times, Bongino clashed with Bondi during a meeting at the White House last week and later threatened to resign. “It’s me or her. She goes or I go,” Bongino reportedly told colleagues, according to Axios. Also read: Trump to announce ‘major’ Russia move tomorrow: What's next for Kyiv and Moscow? The disagreement stemmed from Bondi’s failure to deliver more documents linked to the Epstein case. Bongino was said to be frustrated with the lack of progress and transparency, fuelling frustration among MAGA supporters already suspicious of the FBI’s handling of the files. MAGA supporters accuse Patel of hiding Epstein documents Patel’s public denial only added fuel to the fire. A number of right-wing commentators lashed out on social media, accusing him of being part of a cover-up or even being named in the documents himself. “Sounds like you might be in the files, Kash,” wrote the account Polling USA. “Release the Epstein files!” posted Republicans Against Trump, referencing Patel’s own previous comments that the files were under the “direct control of the FBI director.” Right-wing lawyer Robert Barnes also criticised Patel, posting: “It was YOU who said Bill Gates is in #EpsteinFiles & now YOU are hiding those files. Inexcusable!” Trump calls for focus on ‘real priorities’ Donald Trump stepped in on Saturday in an attempt to ease the tension. In a post on Truth Social, he appeared to back Patel while calling on his base to focus their energy on Democrat corruption and voter fraud instead of conspiracy theories. “We are about to achieve more in 6 months than any other Administration has achieved in over 100 years… Kash Patel, and the FBI, must be focused on investigating Voter Fraud, Political Corruption, ActBlue, The Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020… instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein,” Trump wrote. He also defended Bondi, adding: “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB, SHE’S GREAT!” What next for the FBI and the Epstein files? So far, neither Bondi nor Bongino has issued any public comment. The FBI also did not respond to media requests for a statement. Meanwhile, the internal fallout has revealed growing cracks within Trump’s team, especially as pressure from the MAGA base intensifies.

Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein documents, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier.

‘Sounds like you’re in the list’: MAGA turns on Trump's FBI chief Kash Patel over Epstein files