Melania Trump denies Epstein ties

In a surprise video from the White House, Melania Trump characterized rumors linking her to Jeffrey Epstein as 'malicious lies' and called for congressional hearings to clear her name.

President Trump later admitted he did not recommend she make the statement but supported her right to address the 'insulting' allegations.

Survivors of Epstein's crimes have criticized the First Lady, accusing her of shifting the public burden back onto victims.

The timing of the statement, amid the ongoing Iran conflict and upcoming midterms, has left many political analysts questioning its strategic purpose.