Millions of new Epstein files name global figures

The US government has released millions of pages of documents linked to late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, revealing connections to numerous high-profile figures worldwide, including Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Richard Branson, and former US President Donald Trump.
The latest release, on January 30, contains around three million pages, 180,000 images, and 2,000 videos. Officials emphasized that inclusion in the documents does not indicate any wrongdoing. Many previously named individuals have denied any involvement in Epstein's crimes, BBC reports.

The release follows the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law by President Trump in November, mandating the public disclosure of all documents related to Epstein. Lawmakers have criticized the administration for delaying full disclosure. 

Among the notable figures, Elon Musk was shown corresponding with Epstein about travel plans, while Gates faced emails allegedly drafted by Epstein, which he and his representatives have dismissed as false. Trump appears in hundreds of entries, largely based on unverified tips, and has consistently denied any misconduct.

British royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Sarah Ferguson, and Lord Mandelson also appear in the files, though context is often unclear, and they have denied wrongdoing. Other figures mentioned include Steve Bannon, Ehud Barak, Sergey Brin, Peter Attia, Brett Ratner, and Noam Chomsky, who engaged in communications with Epstein in various capacities.

Responses from those named stress that the records do not prove criminal conduct, with several emphasizing they had no knowledge of Epstein's illegal activities or severed ties long before his death.

The massive release has renewed scrutiny on Epstein's network, prompting resignations, investigations, and public debate over accountability among the world's elite.