Donald Trump has said he wishes Ghislaine Maxwell well, as she faces federal charges for allegedly aiding Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking of minors. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the US president was asked whether Maxwell might implicate powerful men from Epstein's social circle.
“I don’t know – I haven’t really been following it too much. I just wish her well, frankly,” Trump responded. “I have met her numerous times over the years, especially since I lived in Palm Beach, and I guess they lived in Palm Beach. But I wish her well, whatever it is.”
Maxwell, a longtime associate of Epstein, was arrested this month and charged with multiple counts, including conspiracy to entice minors to travel for illegal sex acts and perjury. Epstein died in federal jail in August last year, sparking speculation about powerful associates including Trump, Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew.
Trump said he was unaware of the situation with Prince Andrew, who has denied sexual misconduct claims. A 2000 photograph shows Trump and his wife Melania with Maxwell and Epstein at Mar-a-Lago.
Maxwell's trial is set for 12 July next year. She faces up to 35 years in prison if convicted. Her lawyers say she “vigorously denies the charges” and is entitled to the presumption of innocence.
