Trump says he ‘did not know anything’ about Melania's press conference denying Epstein links

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Thursday, April 9, expressed surprise at Melania Trump’s sudden White House address regarding Jeffrey Epstein, stating he “didn't know anything about” the statement before it aired. 

The President noted that his wife did not know the disgraced financier before ending the call to return to an ongoing war meeting.

Trump reacts to Melania's surprise address

President Donald Trump, made it clear that he was entirely unaware of the First Lady’s plans to deliver a formal statement regarding the long-standing Epstein rumors. 

Speaking to ‘MS Now,’ Trump said he “didn't know anything about” the First Lady’s statement and added that “she didn't know Epstein” before concluding the call, having noted at the start of the conversation that he was in the middle of a war meeting and would not be able to talk for long.

Melania denies Epstein connections

The reaction from President Trump followed a statement delivered by Melania from the Cross Hall of the White House. 

During the speech, she sought to dismantle years of speculation and rumors regarding her past social circles by stating, "I've never been friends with Epstein."

“I am not Epstein's victim,” she declared, adding that “Epstein did not introduce me to Donald Trump. I met my husband by chance at a New York City party in 1998.” 

She rejected claims of any personal relationship with Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell, asserting that any brief encounters were the result of overlapping social scenes in New York and Palm Beach.

Melania issues warning against misinformation

During her address, the First Lady sent a stern message regarding the spread of false stories and political attacks online.

“These images and stories are completely false. I'm not a witness or unnamed witness in connection with any of Epstein's crimes,” she said. 

She further emphasized her commitment to legal recourse against her detractors, stating, “The false smears about me from mean-spirited and politically motivated individuals and entities looking to cause damage to my good name to gain financially and climb politically must stop.”

She added, “My attorneys and I have fought these unfounded and baseless lies with success, and will continue to maintain my sound reputation without hesitation.

Melania advocates for survivors and addresses Maxwell email

Melania also urged Congress to take a more active role in seeking justice for Epstein’s victims. 

She proposed that lawmakers hold public hearings where survivors can testify under oath to ensure the truth is recorded officially. 

“Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public, if she wishes,” she said, adding, “I call on Congress to provide the women who have been victimized by Epstein with a public hearing specifically centered around the survivors.”

Addressing a leaked email between herself and Maxwell, she dismissed it as a simple, polite interaction. 

“My email reply to Maxwell cannot be characterized as anything more than casual correspondence. My polite reply to her email doesn't amount to anything more than a trivial note,” she explained. 

She maintained that she first met Epstein in 2000 and was entirely unaware of his crimes at that time, emphasizing that her focus now is on ensuring that those who were truly victimized are given a proper voice.