Melania Trump has firmly denied any connection to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, calling recent claims “lies” and urging an end to speculation linking her to the case.

In an unusual public address from the White House, Melania Trump said she had no relationship with Epstein and rejected claims that he introduced her to Donald Trump. She clarified that she first met Donald Trump at a New York party in 1998, and only encountered Epstein years later at a separate event attended with Trump.

“The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” she said, adding, “I am not Epstein’s victim.” The statement comes amid renewed attention on Epstein-related files and ongoing political scrutiny.

Melania Trump also called on the U.S. Congress to hold public hearings for Epstein’s victims, suggesting they should be allowed to testify under oath. Her remarks could bring fresh momentum to demands for transparency around the case, which has continued to generate controversy in American political circles.

The issue has posed challenges for President Donald Trump, who previously acknowledged knowing Epstein but said he severed ties with him in the early 2000s. The president has faced criticism over how his administration handled the release of documents related to Epstein, including delays that frustrated some supporters.

The controversy escalated further last week when Attorney General Pam Bondi was dismissed, reportedly amid dissatisfaction over the pace of disclosures tied to Epstein files. The case has implicated a wide network of high-profile individuals, intensifying public and political pressure for accountability.

Melania Trump did not take questions following her statement, and her office did not specify why she chose to address the issue at this time. However, her adviser said the move was prompted by a need to counter what she described as persistent misinformation.

Her intervention has once again brought the Epstein case into the spotlight, raising questions about its political impact as well as broader calls for justice and transparency for victims.