Britain’s royal family is once again embroiled in controversy following the release of new documents from the U.S. investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The documents reveal unsettling details about the relationship between Epstein, a convicted sex offender, and a correspondent who appears to be the man formerly known as Prince Andrew.
Emails released by the U.S. Justice Department include an invitation for Epstein to dine at Buckingham Palace, an offer from Epstein to introduce his correspondent to a 26-year-old Russian woman, and photos that seemingly show Andrew Mountbatten Windsor kneeling over an unidentified person lying on the floor. These revelations come three months after King Charles III stripped Mr. Mountbatten Windsor of his royal titles, including the right to be called a prince, in an effort to shield the monarchy from ongoing scandals related to his younger brother’s association with Epstein.
A Tarnished Figure
The decision to remove Mr. Mountbatten Windsor’s titles was seen as a necessary step to protect the royal family, according to Craig Prescott, an expert on constitutional law and the monarchy at Royal Holloway, University of London. “They had to do something to separate Andrew from the rest of the family, and the nuclear option was the clearest way of doing it,” Mr. Prescott told the Associated Press. “And as more comes out, then you do feel that they have been justified.”
The documents raise serious questions about Mr. Mountbatten Windsor’s judgment, offering a rare glimpse into the behavior of the world’s elite behind closed doors. “It’s sort of the things they do behind some of the most gilded doors in New York or London or wherever,” Prescott noted. “It’s the sort of things that on some occasions seem to be going on. And I think most people just think, wow, that’s all very extraordinary.”
A Relationship Under Fire
Mr. Mountbatten Windsor’s relationship with Epstein has been under scrutiny since 2008, when Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor for prostitution. In 2011, Virginia Roberts Giuffre alleged that Epstein trafficked her and forced her to have sex with Mr. Mountbatten Windsor when she was 17. The former prince attempted to quell the controversy in a 2019 BBC interview, but his explanations were met with skepticism and criticism for lacking empathy towards Epstein’s victims.
Despite denying any wrongdoing and rejecting Giuffre’s allegations, Mr. Mountbatten Windsor faces renewed scrutiny with the latest document release. An email seeking comment on the release has gone unanswered. It’s important to note that the presence of a name or image in investigative files does not constitute proof of wrongdoing.
“I have a friend who I think you might enjoy having dinner with,” Epstein writes in an August 2010 email exchange with an account labeled “The Duke,” which occurred soon after Epstein’s release from home detention.
The emails, signed “A,” reveal a casual exchange between Epstein and “The Duke,” discussing a potential meeting with a young Russian woman. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond expressed shock at the exchange, noting the unusual nature of a royal meeting someone they knew so little about. “I mean, what was he thinking?” Bond remarked to the BBC.
Damaging Emails and Photographs
Further emails from September 2010 show Epstein in London, with “The Duke” suggesting a private dinner at Buckingham Palace. “bp please,” Epstein responds, indicating a preference for the palace. Additionally, three photographs included in the release depict a man resembling Mr. Mountbatten Windsor kneeling over an unidentified person, with no details on the photos’ context or timing.
Despite these revelations, Craig Prescott believes the palace has limited options for further sanctioning Mr. Mountbatten Windsor. “In terms of Andrew’s reputation, that has totally gone,” he stated.
Calls for Testimony
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for Mr. Mountbatten Windsor to testify before the U.S. Congress regarding his knowledge of Epstein’s crimes. During a visit to China and Japan, Starmer emphasized the importance of sharing information to prioritize victims’ needs. “I’ve always said anybody that has got information should be prepared to share that information in whatever form they are asked to do that,” he told reporters.
While previously encouraging those with relevant information to testify, Starmer now suggests that Mr. Mountbatten Windsor should answer U.S. politicians’ questions. The former prince had expressed willingness to assist law enforcement in 2019, yet his lawyers have resisted direct interviews, preferring written responses.
The House Oversight Committee, investigating Epstein, requested a transcribed interview with Mr. Mountbatten Windsor in November. However, there is no indication that such testimony has been provided. As the scandal continues to unfold, the implications for Mr. Mountbatten Windsor and the royal family remain uncertain.
