Epstein Files spark fresh controversy, includes allegations involving Bill Gates, Prince Andrew, Elon Musk and others

• The US Justice Department released more than three million largely unverified documents, emails, images, and videos linked to Jeffrey Epstein
• Draft emails written by Epstein in 2013 make unproven allegations involving Bill Gates, which his representatives have strongly denied
• Newly released photos and emails reference Prince Andrew, though officials stress they do not constitute evidence of wrongdoing
• The files include mentions of Ghislaine Maxwell, Elon Musk, Peter Mandelson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump through emails and associations
• Authorities emphasize that inclusion in the Epstein files reflects association or allegation, not proof of criminal conduct

The latest release of the Jeffrey Epstein files has triggered renewed controversy, as more than three million pages of documents, images, videos, and emails were made public by the US Department of Justice. The material includes raw, largely unverified records gathered during investigations into the late financier and convicted sex offender, once again drawing major public figures into uncomfortable focus.

Among the most widely discussed revelations are draft emails written by Epstein himself in July 2013. These messages, sent to Epstein’s own account and never delivered, were allegedly written from the perspective of Boris Nikolic, a former science adviser to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. The drafts contain graphic and salacious allegations about Gates’ personal life and health.

In one email, Epstein claimed Gates had contracted a sexually transmitted disease after alleged encounters with “Russian girls” and had sought antibiotics to secretly give to his then wife, Melinda French Gates. Another draft, framed as a resignation letter, alleged that Nikolic had been asked to help Gates obtain drugs and participate in actions Epstein described as morally inappropriate or potentially illegal. The emails also hinted at leverage Epstein believed he held, particularly in the event of a public divorce that could damage Gates’ philanthropic reputation.

Gates’ representatives strongly denied all allegations, calling them “absolutely absurd and completely false.” A spokesperson said the drafts only demonstrated Epstein’s frustration over losing access to Gates and his willingness to fabricate stories. Nikolic has not commented publicly.

The document release also sheds further light on Epstein’s connections to Britain’s Prince Andrew. Newly published photos show Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor crouched over an unidentified woman. The images are undated, heavily anonymized, and lack context, with officials stressing they do not constitute evidence of wrongdoing.

Emails included in the files suggest correspondence between Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and an account labeled “The Duke,” widely believed to refer to Prince Andrew. In the exchanges, Epstein describes a “beautiful” and “trustworthy” Russian woman and discusses social plans. Andrew has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein, stating he neither witnessed nor suspected criminal behavior.

Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime associate who is serving a prison sentence for sex trafficking-related crimes, also appears throughout the documents. Emails attributed to her include references to Andrew spending time with his former wife Sarah Ferguson and their children instead of visiting Epstein’s private island.

The files further reveal financial dealings between Epstein and Reinaldo Avila da Silva, husband of former UK ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson. Emails show Epstein wiring thousands of pounds to help cover osteopathy school fees. Mandelson has previously apologized for maintaining a friendship with Epstein after his conviction and reiterated his regret following the document release.

Elon Musk is also mentioned in the files through emails from 2012 and 2013 discussing a possible visit to Epstein’s island. While Epstein referenced party plans, Musk has consistently said he refused to visit the island and reiterated his support for full transparency in releasing the Epstein files. There is no confirmation that any visit took place.

The disclosure additionally places political pressure on figures such as former US president Bill Clinton and president Donald Trump, both of whom had past associations with Epstein. Officials emphasize that appearing in the files does not imply criminal conduct.

The Epstein files were released following legislation passed in 2025 mandating full disclosure. While the documents offer insight into Epstein’s vast network of influence, authorities caution that many claims remain unproven, showing the difference between allegation, association, and evidence.