U.S. First Lady Melania Trump has dismissed recent reports linking her to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calling them false propaganda.
In a strong statement from the White House, she urged Congress to hold a public hearing so that victims of Epstein can testify and share their accounts under oath, stressing the need for transparency and justice.
According to CNN, Melania Trump said that she has had no connection with either Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.
She said that being invited to the same social events in circles in New York and Palm Beach is common, but it does not imply any personal friendship between them.
Meanwhile, Melania Trump was reportedly upset over online rumors and fake images circulating about her and decided, on legal advice, to issue a formal rebuttal.
The First Lady said that every woman who was a victim of abuse due to Epstein should be given the opportunity to testify under oath before Congress.
She added that every victim’s story should be heard publicly so that the truth can come to light. Melania Trump further emphasized that these statements should be entered into the parliamentary record permanently to ensure justice.
Her demand has received support from both Democrats and Republicans in the U.S. House, although some victims’ groups say it is merely an attempt to divert attention.
Jeffrey Epstein was an American financier and convicted sex offender accused of operating a vast sex trafficking network involving underage girls. He was arrested in 2019 on federal charges but died in jail under controversial circumstances before trial. His case sparked global scrutiny of powerful social and political connections.
