In his first televised interview since the recent release of Justice Department files connected to Jeffrey Epstein, tech billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates publicly addressed his past association with the convicted sex offender and the sensational allegations that circulated in the media.
Public Acknowledgement and Regret:Gates, 70, told Australia’s 9News that he “regrets every minute” he spent with Epstein and admitted it was “foolish to spend time with him.”
He characterised their interactions which took place between 2011 and 2014 as meetings over dinners about philanthropy and fundraising, not personal or illicit conduct.
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Denial of Allegations:The interview came after a tranche of more than 3 million pages of DOJ documents was released, including draft emails Epstein wrote to himself alleging Gates had extramarital sex and contracted an STI from “Russian girls.” Gates dismissed these claims as “false” and said the emails were never sent and did not reflect reality.
Context of Relationship with Epstein:Gates explained he first met Epstein in 2011 and that all their interactions were related to discussions about fundraising for global health causes.
He stressed he had never visited Epstein’s private island or met any women through the disgraced financier. “In retrospect, that was a dead end,” he said.
Responses From Associates:Gates’s spokesperson has also stated that the allegations in the documents are “absolutely absurd and completely false,” arguing that they reflect Epstein’s frustration over the lack of a continuing relationship and possible attempts to defame Gates.
Impact on Personal Life:The revelations have renewed attention on the long-standing controversy surrounding Gates’s ties to Epstein.
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Gates’s ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, has previously described the period as “very painful times” in their marriage due to the scrutiny over his interactions with Epstein.
In his most comprehensive public remarks since the DOJ’s latest Epstein files release, Bill Gates acknowledged his judgment error in associating with Jeffrey Epstein but firmly denied the sensational sexual allegations now circulating.
He emphasised his regret over the relationship, clarified the nature of their interactions, and pushed back against claims he engaged in any misconduct.
Image Credit: Lindaikeji
Source :LIB
