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US lawmaker calls for King Charles to meet Epstein survivors
Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has urged Britain's King Charles to privately meet survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his upcoming visit to the United States, expected later this month.
Background of the request
Khanna, who co-sponsored legislation that led to the release of the Epstein files by the U.S. Justice Department last year, sent a letter to the King on Monday. He emphasized that Epstein's network extended beyond American borders, involving British figures and institutions.
"This is not solely an American matter," Khanna wrote, highlighting Epstein's ties to the UK through associates like Ghislaine Maxwell, his relationships with British public figures, and his influence within elite social and political circles.
Call for accountability and transparency
The California lawmaker argued that a meeting with survivors would provide an opportunity to uncover additional information from British institutions and individuals. He stressed that such a gesture would demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability.
"It would ensure that survivors are heard directly and that these matters are addressed with seriousness,"
Ro Khanna, Democratic Congressman
Congressional efforts to probe Epstein's UK connections
Khanna noted that members of Congress have sought testimony from the King's brother, Prince Andrew, as well as former UK ambassador to the U.S., Peter Mandelson, regarding their ties to Epstein. Prince Andrew, stripped of his royal titles last year due to his association with Epstein, has not responded to congressional requests for testimony.
Mandelson, who was asked to appear before a congressional committee, declined to cooperate, citing an ongoing criminal investigation. He was arrested last month over allegations of sharing market-sensitive government information while serving as a minister. Mandelson has denied any criminal wrongdoing.
Royal Family's stance and upcoming visit
Buckingham Palace has previously stated that the King's sympathies "have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse." The Palace has not yet responded to Khanna's letter.
While unconfirmed, reports suggest King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit Washington later this month, where they are expected to meet President Donald Trump and address Congress. The trip precedes the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence in July.
Recent developments involving Prince Andrew
Last month, the King stated that the Royal Family would "support" police inquiries after Prince Andrew was arrested and released on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The allegations relate to his tenure as the UK's trade representative from 2001 to 2011 and involve claims that he shared official documents with Epstein.
Recently released Justice Department files include photographs of Prince Andrew with Epstein and another showing the former prince kneeling over a woman with her face redacted. In 2022, Prince Andrew settled a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexually abusing her when she was 17. The settlement did not include an admission of liability.
