Melania Trump speaks about Jeffrey Epstein at a press conference on Thursday.Image: keystone
Apr 9, 2026, 9:08 p.mApr 9, 2026, 10:03 p.m
US First Lady Melania Trump has firmly denied speculation about an alleged relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
At a press conference in front of the White House on Thursday, she spoke of “lies” about her alleged connection to Epstein. “I am not a victim of Epstein,” she said. In addition, Epstein did not introduce her to Donald Trump. She had no knowledge of Epstein’s abuse and was “in no way involved”.
The first lady also said she first met Epstein in 2000 at an event she attended with the current president.
At the same time, Melania Trump spoke out in favor of giving Epstein’s victims a greater voice. She called on Congress to give the women affected a public hearing. Everyone affected should be given the chance to tell their story publicly if they wish. The survivors’ statements should also be permanently recorded in the congressional minutes.
It was initially unclear what exactly prompted the First Lady to make the statement. Observers believe it is possible that she wanted to forestall impending accusations. Trump did not answer questions from journalists. (hkl)