Epstein survivors criticise Melania Trump after surprise statement - US politics live
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Melania Trump issued a rare public statement denying any relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, asserting she was not Epstein’s victim and that overlap in social circles was common in New York and Palm Beach.
- Epstein survivors criticized Melania Trump’s statement as “shifting the burden” onto them and protecting those in power, calling for accountability from officials like former attorney general Pam Bondi.
- The motivation behind Melania Trump’s unexpected statement remains unclear, with media and insiders expressing confusion about why she addressed the topic now, especially as the White House seeks to move past the Epstein controversy.
- Separately, House Democrats failed to pass a war powers resolution by unanimous consent but plan to pursue formal votes after Congress returns from recess, hoping some GOP members will support the measure.
- Donald Trump expressed optimism about a potential peace deal with Iran, highlighting differences between Iran’s public statements and private diplomacy as his administration prepares for high-stakes talks in Pakistan.
