Melania Trump denies ties to Epstein, calls for probe

U.S. First Lady Melania Trump has denied any personal relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, describing claims linking her to the pair as false and defamatory.

In a strongly worded statement released by the White House, Melania said she only crossed paths with Epstein once, at a social event in 2000 attended alongside her husband, Donald Trump.

She stressed that she was never friends with Epstein and had no knowledge of his criminal activities at the time, noting that encounters within overlapping social circles in places like New York and Palm Beach were not unusual.

The First Lady also dismissed suggestions that Epstein played any role in her relationship with Donald Trump, stating that she met her husband independently at a New York party in 1998, long before her brief encounter with Epstein.

She further clarified that any communication with Maxwell was limited to what she described as “casual correspondence,” insisting it did not indicate any form of relationship or involvement.

First Lady rejects “false smears,” cites legal victories

Melania Trump said her name has never appeared in any official documents related to Epstein’s crimes, including court filings, victim testimonies, or investigative records.

She emphasised that she was neither a witness nor a person of interest in any probe connected to Epstein’s activities, adding that she had never visited his private island, travelled on his aircraft, or participated in any of his alleged crimes.

Describing the allegations as politically motivated attacks, she accused critics of attempting to damage her reputation for personal or financial gain.

The First Lady said her legal team has successfully challenged several media outlets and individuals over similar claims in the past, leading to public apologies and retractions.

Calls for congressional hearing on victims

Beyond denying the allegations, Melania Trump called on the U.S. Congress to conduct a public hearing focused on victims of Epstein’s crimes.

She argued that survivors should be given the opportunity to testify under oath, with their accounts formally recorded as part of the congressional record.

According to her, such a process would help uncover the full truth about Epstein’s network and ensure that victims are heard in a transparent and accountable setting.

Her statement comes amid renewed public interest in Epstein’s case, which has continued to generate controversy due to the high-profile individuals previously linked to his social and professional circles.

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While reiterating her distance from the scandal, the First Lady maintained that ongoing misinformation campaigns must be challenged, adding that she would continue to defend her reputation through legal means where necessary.