US Congressman Calls on King Charles to Meet Epstein Victims During Potential US Trip
King Charles has been formally requested by a United States lawmaker to arrange a private meeting with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes if he travels to America later this year. Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has sent a letter to the monarch ahead of a rumoured visit by the King and Queen Camilla to the United States at the end of April, although the trip has not been officially confirmed by Buckingham Palace.
Transparency and Accountability Across Borders
In his correspondence, Representative Khanna emphasised that the Epstein case is "not solely an American matter", citing the financier's extensive connections to British public figures and institutions through his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The congressman, who co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act that released millions of documents related to the sex offender, wrote: "I make this request in light of recent developments in the United Kingdom, including renewed scrutiny of individuals and institutions with ties to Epstein and his network."
Khanna continued: "These developments have raised serious questions about conduct, access, and whether positions of public trust were misused or whether public institutions helped shield wrongdoing." He referenced the King's own call for a "full, fair and proper" investigation, stating that a meeting with survivors would help ensure these matters are addressed with transparency and accountability.
Broader Congressional Investigation
The California politician revealed that Congress has already reached out to both Prince Andrew and former UK ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson, requesting they appear before an Oversight Committee regarding their connections to Epstein. Neither British figure can be legally compelled to testify before Congress as they are not US nationals, and both have previously denied any wrongdoing.
Khanna's letter specifically noted: "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. These connections raise broader questions about how Epstein was able to maintain influence, credibility, and protection across borders for so long."
Palace Response and Ongoing Investigations
Buckingham Palace previously stated in October that "Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse." This comes amid ongoing investigations in the UK, where Prince Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, with the Palace indicating it would "stand ready to support" police if approached. Peter Mandelson was also arrested on similar suspicion and released on bail.
The congressman concluded his appeal by stating: "A meeting with survivors would provide an opportunity to identify any additional information British institutions and individuals may be able to share and open a dialogue about whether there will be a full accounting of how Epstein's and Maxwell's network operated in the United Kingdom. It would also ensure that survivors are heard directly and that these matters are addressed with transparency, seriousness, and accountability."
