10 April,2026 02:37 PM IST | Washington DC | mid-day online correspondent
US first lady Melania Trump delivers a statement at the Grand Foyer of the White House in Washington, DC. PIC/AFP
US First Lady Melania Trump on Thursday made a rare public statement denying any knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse, and said she was not a victim of the convicted sex offender, news agency AFP reported.
The 55-year-old delivered on-camera remarks at the White House, addressing allegations linking her to Epstein, a scandal that has long shadowed her husband, US President Donald Trump.
"The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she said, adding, "The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility and respect."
Melania Trump did not specify the allegations, but said that false images and claims about her association with Epstein had been circulating on social media for years, AFP reported.
"I am not Epstein's victim. Epstein did not introduce me to Donald Trump," she said.
She added, "Fake images and statements about Epstein and me have been circulating on social media for years now. Be cautious about what you believe: these images and stories are completely false."
The First Lady also urged the US Congress to hold a public hearing for survivors of Epstein's abuse to "give these victims their opportunity to testify under oath", AFP reported.
Reacting to her statement, Epstein accusers, sisters Maria Farmer and Annie Farmer, said in a statement to US media: "We can't speak for other survivors, but what we want is accountability, transparency and justice."
They also called for the release of remaining records held by the Department of Justice, including complete FBI records from 1996.
Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving minors. The case has continued to draw public attention in the United States (US).
Melania Trump said she had no knowledge of Epstein's abuse and denied any involvement.
"I have never had any knowledge of Epstein's abuse of his victims. I was never involved in any capacity. I was not a participant. Was never on Epstein's plane, and never visited his private island," she said.
"I have never been legally accused or convinced of a crime in connection with Epstein sex trafficking, abuse of minors and other repulsive behavior."
She also clarified that she had met Donald Trump independently before being introduced to Epstein.
(With AFP inputs)
