In a rare and forceful public statement delivered at the White House, former First Lady Melania Trump has categorically denied any association with the convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. She also called for congressional action to allow survivors of Epstein's crimes to give sworn testimony in a public hearing.
Denial of All Connections
Mrs Trump stated unequivocally that she never had a friendship or relationship with Epstein or his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell. She described social overlap at parties in New York City and Palm Beach as incidental, common in those circles, but emphasised it did not constitute a personal connection.
"The lies linking me to the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she declared. "I never been friends with Epstein. Donald and I were invited to the same parties as Epstein from time to time, since overlapping in social circles is common."
Addressing Specific Allegations
Melania Trump addressed several specific claims that have circulated, particularly on social media. She asserted that an email reply to Maxwell was merely casual correspondence and trivial in nature. She also denied being Epstein's victim or that he introduced her to Donald Trump, noting she met her husband by chance at a 1998 New York party, as documented in her book.
"The first time I crossed paths with Epstein was in the year 2000 at an event Donald and I attended together," she explained. "At the time, I had never met Epstein and had no knowledge of his criminal undertakings."
Legal and Evidentiary Clarifications
The former First Lady highlighted that her name has never appeared in any legal documents related to the Epstein case, including court filings, depositions, victim statements, or FBI interviews. She stated she had no knowledge of Epstein's abuse and was never involved in any capacity, nor did she visit his private island or travel on his plane.
"I have never been legally accused or convicted of a crime in connection with Epstein, sex trafficking, abuse of minors and other repulsive behaviour," she affirmed.
Call for Congressional Action
Beyond defending her reputation, Mrs Trump urged Congress to take decisive steps. She referenced the resignations of prominent male executives following the politicisation of the Epstein matter, stressing this does not imply guilt but underscores the need for transparency.
"Now is the time for Congress to act. Epstein was not alone," she said. "We still must work openly and transparently to uncover the truth."
Advocacy for Survivors
In a significant appeal, Melania Trump called for Congress to provide a public hearing specifically for the women victimised by Epstein. She emphasised the importance of sworn testimony to ensure their stories are heard and preserved.
"Give these victims their opportunity to testify under oath in front of Congress with the power of sworn testimony," she urged. "Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public, if she wishes, and then her testimony should be permanently entered into the Congressional Record, then and only then we will have the truth."
She concluded by noting that her attorneys have successfully fought baseless lies and will continue to protect her reputation without hesitation.
