By Blessing Nweke

First Lady Melania Trump has firmly denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, calling on Thursday for an end to what she described as “mean-spirited” rumours linking her to the disgraced financier.

Speaking in a rare appearance at the White House, Trump said she had only briefly “crossed paths” with Epstein in 2000 and had no knowledge of his abuse of victims. “I was never involved in any capacity. I was not a participant,” she said.

She also denied knowing Ghislaine Maxwell, despite a 2002 email between the two that has resurfaced in recently released Epstein-related documents. Trump described the message as “casual correspondence” and a “polite reply.”

Addressing another long-standing claim, the first lady rejected suggestions that Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump, dismissing such allegations as attempts to damage her reputation.

In a surprise move, Trump urged Congress to hold public hearings for Epstein’s survivors, arguing they should testify under oath. “Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public if she wishes,” she said, adding that transparency is essential to uncovering the truth.

Her call drew support from Democratic Representative Robert Garcia, who urged House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer to schedule hearings immediately.

However, families of victims, including those linked to accuser Virginia Giuffre, criticised the proposal, saying survivors have already shown “extraordinary courage” and that responsibility now lies with authorities.

The statement is expected to reignite debate over the handling of Epstein investigations, as scrutiny continues over figures linked to the case, despite no indication of wrongdoing by the president.