Rudd Denies Records of Visiting Epstein’s New York Residence

Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has categorically denied ever visiting the New York residence of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This statement follows the recent release of approximately three million documents by the U.S. Department of Justice, which revealed various details about Epstein’s network.

Denial of Meeting with Epstein

Emails from the released documents indicate that Rudd was scheduled to meet with Epstein on June 8, 2014. Despite this, Rudd’s office confirmed that no records exist of such a meeting, asserting that the arrangement was unsuccessful.

Context of the Meeting

• Epstein’s schedule on June 8 included a flight from his private island, Little Saint James.
• Planned meetings on that day featured notable figures such as venture capitalist Joi Ito and filmmaker Woody Allen.
• Epstein expressed uncertainty about Rudd’s attendance in emails to his assistant.

Rudd’s office stated, “Our office has no records of this meeting, and the documents do not clarify who organized it.” This ambiguity sheds light on potential misunderstandings regarding the alleged meeting.

Rudd’s Connections and Past Comments

In previous communications, Rudd emphasized that he had no personal relationship with Epstein. He admitted to possibly attending the same public events, given his extensive participation in functions in New York. However, he highlighted that there was no direct contact between him and Epstein, nor did he facilitate any introductions.

Email Correspondence and Further Clarifications

• An email from Epstein’s assistant in September 2015 noted a dinner invitation that Rudd declined.
• The secretary-general of the Council of Europe referred to Rudd as “a friend of both of us,” which Rudd’s office clarified was based on their mutual connection to the International Peace Institute (IPI).

Rudd has previously acknowledged that Epstein’s financial contributions to the IPI were unexpected. He stated he felt “blindsided” by the revelations surrounding Epstein’s donations and the circumstances leading to the resignation of the IPI’s chief executive.

Rudd’s Future and Legal Actions

As Rudd prepares to transition from his role as Australia’s ambassador to the United States, his office firmly denounced any insinuations regarding wrongdoing. They have also declared readiness to take legal action against defamatory claims related to any alleged personal relationship with Epstein.

The release of these emails does not imply any wrongdoing on Rudd’s part, and his legal team is poised to defend his reputation vigorously.