Melania Trump denies ties to Epstein in White House video

During a recent White House appearance, Melania Trump addressed allegations linking her to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. She clarified that she had never been friends with either individual, asserting that their connections were limited to shared social circles. “The false connections between me and the disgraced Jeffrey Epstein must be put to rest,” she stated while reading from a prepared statement.

“The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility and respect. I do not object to their ignorance, but rather I reject their mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation,” she added.

Epstein, who was convicted of soliciting sex from a minor in 2008, died in prison in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges. His legal troubles, which were later deemed a suicide, sparked global scrutiny. Trump noted that their association with Epstein concluded in the mid-2000s, and he was unaware of any misconduct during that time.

According to Melania, she met her husband before their involvement with Epstein. “I am not Epstein’s victim. Epstein did not introduce me to Donald Trump. I met my husband, by chance, at a New York City party in 1998,” she explained. She emphasized that her interactions with Epstein were occasional, stemming from overlapping social events in the city.

Recent revelations in the “Epstein files”—documents released in November and January—have intensified the controversy. The late financier’s relationships with high-profile figures have drawn criticism in the U.S. and other nations, including Norway and the United Kingdom. Trump’s decision to dismiss Attorney General Pam Bondi on April 1, following her handling of the files, underscores the ongoing impact of these disclosures.

Former President Bill Clinton also weighed in, denying awareness of Epstein’s sexual crimes during congressional testimony in March. The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected as the story continues to unfold.