Melania Trump denies Epstein links

The First Lady's decision to address long-standing rumors about her past has brought renewed scrutiny to the Trump family's historical connections.

In her on-camera remarks, Mrs. Trump insisted that her meeting with the president was entirely independent of the convicted sex trafficker.

Critics and analysts have questioned the timing of the statement, with some suggesting it was an attempt to control her image ahead of a high-profile state visit.

The denial has only served to reignite public interest in the Epstein files, which remain a point of contention for many voters.