Epstein’s Files Reveal Repeated Attempts to Connect with Putin
The recent unearthing of Jeffrey Epstein’s files has spotlighted over a thousand references to Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising eyebrows despite the lack of evidence of any meetings or wrongdoing. These documents detail Epstein’s persistent efforts to court the Kremlin leader, which highlights a complex web of connections and intentions.
Why It Matters
The implications of these findings delve into the lingering concerns surrounding Epstein’s extensive network and the potential influence he sought to exert on global leaders. The files suggest a fascination with securing ties to powerful figures, reflecting both Epstein’s ambitions and the broader context of political intrigue involving Russia and the West.
Key Developments
- Repetitive Outreach: Epstein’s attempts to meet Putin date back to 2011, continuing through 2018, with numerous emails pleading for meetings.
- Proposed Meetings: Notably, Epstein suggested diplomatic topics, such as engaging Western investment in Russia, as reasons for potential discussions.
- Audio Evidence: An audio clip reveals Epstein providing guidance on how to approach Putin, underscoring the seriousness of his outreach.
- Kremlin Response: The Russian government has stated that they did not receive offers for a meeting from Epstein, downplaying the significance of the files.
- Media Silence: Russian media has largely ignored the Epstein-Putin connection, focusing instead on other prominent figures mentioned in the files.
Full Report
Early Efforts and Correspondence
The earliest mention of Putin arose in September 2011, when an unnamed source referenced a meeting Epstein claimed to have arranged with Putin during his tenure as prime minister. However, there is no substantiation that this meeting occurred.
By 2013, with Putin resuming the presidency, Epstein intensified his outreach, utilizing former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland as a conduit. In an email to Jagland, Epstein expressed his familiarity with Putin’s desire for Western investment, suggesting he had solutions beneficial to both parties.
Continued Pursuits
Epstein’s efforts persisted into 2014, with Jagland notifying him of an upcoming meeting in Sochi. Although it remains unclear if Epstein attended, he continued to express urgency in connecting with the Russian leader. Following the tragic Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 crash in July 2014, which killed 298 people, Epstein still sought to meet with Putin, demonstrating his relentless pursuit amid global unrest.
By July 2015, he once again reached out to Jagland, affirming his appreciation for assistance in arranging a meeting with Putin to discuss economic matters. Subsequent attempts in 2016, 2017, and a final plea in June 2018 also highlighted his desire to connect.
Kremlin’s Dismissal
Upon inquiry about the files, the Kremlin reaffirmed that no meeting proposals from Epstein ever reached them. The Russian press has been largely silent, choosing instead to cover figures like Bill Clinton and the Crown Princess of Norway, thereby diverting attention from the Epstein-Putin link.
Context & Previous Events
The files surfaced through a combination of investigative journalism efforts, notably by Sky’s Data and Forensics team, focusing on Epstein’s connections with high-profile individuals. Despite the findings, the absence of any confirmed meetings between Epstein and Putin underlines the nature of these interactions as largely speculative. The situation illustrates the ongoing scrutiny of Epstein’s wide-ranging influence and the political ramifications of his social network.
