US First Lady Melania Trump has firmly rejected any connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, urging an end to what she described as damaging and unfounded claims while calling for new congressional hearings for survivors.
In an unexpected appearance at the White House, Melania Trump said she had only briefly “crossed paths” with Epstein more than two decades ago and had no knowledge of his crimes.
She dismissed allegations circulating online that he played a role in her relationship with President Donald Trump, calling them attempts to harm her reputation.
She also denied any meaningful connection to Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently imprisoned for her role in Epstein’s abuse network. Addressing a previously disclosed email exchange, the first lady described it as routine and insignificant correspondence.
Melania Trump said she had never been involved in or aware of Epstein’s activities, stressing she was not a victim and had no role in any misconduct.
She used the moment to call on lawmakers to allow survivors to testify under oath before Congress, arguing that public testimony could help establish a fuller account of events.
Her remarks, which were not trailed in advance, have drawn political attention in Washington. Democratic Congressman Robert Garcia signalled support for the proposal, urging House Oversight Committee chairman James Comer to organise hearings.
Reactions from survivors and advocacy groups have been mixed.
Some welcomed the call for further action, while others questioned whether additional public hearings would meaningfully advance justice, noting that many victims have already testified or remain bound by legal constraints such as non-disclosure agreements.
The issue continues to generate legal and political fallout. Previous media reports and books alleging links between the Trumps and Epstein have led to retractions and legal disputes, including action involving author Michael Wolff.
Melania Trump’s intervention—one of her rare public statements—has renewed scrutiny of how authorities have handled the Epstein investigation and the release of related files.
While Donald Trump has acknowledged knowing Epstein in the past, he has said their relationship ended years ago and has denied any wrongdoing.
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