US Lawmaker Appeals to King Charles on Epstein Victims
A US lawmaker has urged King Charles to meet with survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during the monarch's anticipated visit to the United States.
Although not officially confirmed, reports indicate that King Charles and Queen Camilla plan to visit the US at the end of April.
Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna, who co-sponsored legislation compelling the US Department of Justice to release Epstein-related files last year, has called on the King to privately meet with victims. The goal is for the survivors to share firsthand accounts of "how powerful individuals and institutions failed them."
"As you are aware, this is not solely an American matter," Khanna wrote in a letter addressed to the King on Monday.
The Palace has previously stated that the King's "sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse."
Connections Between Epstein's Network and the UK
In his letter, Khanna highlighted Epstein's network's significant ties to the United Kingdom, including through Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's relationships with British public figures, and the social and political circles in which he operated.
"Epstein's network had significant ties to the United Kingdom through Ghislaine Maxwell, through Epstein's relationships with British public figures, and through the social and political circles in which he operated."
Khanna emphasized that these connections raise broader questions about how Epstein maintained influence, credibility, and protection across borders for an extended period.
"These connections... raise broader questions about how Epstein was able to maintain influence, credibility, and protection across borders for so long."
The Congressman suggested that a meeting with survivors would provide an opportunity to identify any additional information British institutions and individuals might be able to share.
"It would also ensure that survivors are heard directly and that these matters are addressed with transparency, seriousness, and accountability."
Congressional Efforts and Testimonies Sought
Khanna noted that members of Congress have sought testimony from the King's brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, and Peter Mandelson, the UK's former ambassador to the US, regarding their ties to Epstein.
Mountbatten-Windsor, who was stripped of his titles last year due to his associations with Epstein, cannot be compelled by subpoena to appear in the US.
According to Khanna's letter, the former prince "did not respond" when Congress members requested testimony about his connections to Epstein.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently and firmly denied any wrongdoing related to his associations with Epstein.
Regarding Mandelson, Khanna wrote that he was asked to appear before a committee concerning his ties to Epstein and whether "sensitive information may have been shared improperly." Mandelson declined to cooperate, citing an ongoing criminal investigation.
Mandelson remains under investigation after being arrested last month over allegations that, while serving as a minister, he passed on market-sensitive government information. The BBC understands that Lord Mandelson maintains he has not acted criminally and was not motivated by financial gain.
Details of the King's Planned US Visit
If the visit proceeds, King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to visit Washington, where they will meet President Donald Trump and, according to US media reports, address Congress.
The trip would precede the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence in July.
The BBC has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.
King's Response to Brother's Investigation
Last month, King Charles stated that the Royal Family was "ready to support" police inquiries following his brother's arrest and subsequent release on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The investigation relates to Andrew's tenure as the UK's trade representative between 2001 and 2011 and follows allegations that he shared official documents with Epstein.
Recently released Justice Department files include photographs of Mountbatten-Windsor with Epstein, as well as an image of the former prince kneeling over a woman whose face is redacted, lying on the floor.
In 2022, Mountbatten-Windsor reached an out-of-court settlement with Virginia Giuffre, his most prominent accuser, who alleged he sexually abused her when she was 17. The settlement did not include any admission of liability.
