Former US President Donald Trump has fiercely denied any connection to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, branding such claims as a "total hoax" during a confrontational press briefing.
Speaking to reporters, Mr Trump appeared visibly irritated when questioned about his past interactions with Epstein, insisting he had "no relationship" with the disgraced billionaire. "This is just another witch hunt," he declared, echoing familiar rhetoric from his presidency.
The Epstein Controversy Resurfaces
The controversial press conference comes as renewed scrutiny surrounds Epstein's network of powerful associates following his 2019 death in prison while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Various public figures have faced questions about their ties to the financier.
Mr Trump acknowledged having met Epstein socially years ago, like many other wealthy New Yorkers, but stressed: "I banned him from my properties when I heard about his disgusting behaviour. Unlike some people, I took action."
A History of Denials
This isn't the first time the former president has addressed the Epstein connection. During his 2016 campaign and throughout his presidency, Mr Trump repeatedly distanced himself from Epstein, despite photographic evidence showing them together at social events in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Legal experts note that while there's no evidence linking Trump to Epstein's criminal activities, the continued questions highlight how the Epstein scandal continues to haunt America's political and business elite.
