US lawmakers urge Prince Andrew to testify over Epstein files
US lawmakers urge Prince Andrew to testify over Epstein files
Democrats push Prince Andrew to answer questions in the Epstein probe as the royal family signals cooperation with investigators.
US lawmakers are stepping up pressure on Prince Andrew to testify in connection with Jeffrey Epstein's case, arguing that a full account of the royal's ties to the financier is essential for transparency. Democrat Congressman Ro Khanna told reporters the royal family had 'not been transparent' and urged Andrew to answer questions in the United States about his links to Epstein. Democrat Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernandez said Charles III should direct his brother to travel to the US to speak with investigators. Andrew has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and previously settled with Virginia Giuffre in 2022 without admitting liability, a deal that has continued to fuel debate about accountability and influence.
Across the Atlantic, the King signaled a readiness to help investigators, saying the royal family stood 'ready to support' police in their inquiries and that the monarchy's priority was to express concern for victims of abuse. Buckingham Palace reiterated that if approached by police, the family would assist the inquiry, while emphasizing their support for the victims and a commitment to transparency where appropriate.
Separately, a police force in England has begun assessing a complaint over the alleged sharing of confidential information by Andrew with Epstein during his earlier role as a trade envoy in 2010 and 2011. The latest tranche of released materials has drawn renewed attention to the way sensitive data may have circulated and the potential implications for the royal household's engagement with law enforcement.
With no public comment yet from Andrew, observers say the outcome could hinge on whether investigators pursue testimony or whether the palace's cooperation suffices. The broader question remains how the Epstein saga will shape public perception of the monarchy and its willingness to engage with controversial figures from the past.
