From ambassadors to CEOs: The high-profile resignations tied to new Epstein files — check full list
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The recent release of over three million emails, memos, and images tied to Jeffrey Epstein has sent shockwaves through global elite circles, leading to a wave of high-profile resignations and inquiries. The files, made public by the US Justice Department, reveal years of correspondence between Epstein and influential figures across industries, including finance, politics, and entertainment. While the fallout has been swift in Europe, with several prominent individuals stepping down or facing legal scrutiny, the response in the United States has been relatively muted compared to the political turbulence overseas.
One notable resignation came from Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman of DP World, one of the world’s largest logistics companies. Bin Sulayem’s connections to Epstein were evident in emails where he referred to Epstein as “one of my most trusted friends.” Following the release of the files, DP World faced pressure from financial groups, prompting bin Sulayem’s immediate resignation. Similarly, Thorbjorn Jagland, a former secretary general of the Council of Europe and prime minister of Norway, was charged with “aggravated corruption” linked to his ties with Epstein. The charges followed the Council of Europe waiving immunity for Jagland at the request of Norwegian police.
In the United States, while some figures like Kathy Ruemmler, a former Obama White House official, have stepped down after scrutiny of her past connections emerged, the overall response has been less intense. Physician and longevity expert Peter Attia also faced criticism after crude exchanges with Epstein were made public. Attia apologized for his interactions but maintained that they were unrelated to Epstein’s sexual abuse. Meanwhile, Sarah Ferguson, a former duchess of York, saw her charity, Sarah’s Trust, shut down following the release of emails showing she had maintained contact with Epstein long after his 2008 conviction.
The fallout highlights the far-reaching influence of Epstein’s network and underscores the importance of accountability in both public and private sectors. The cases demonstrate how the release of these files has not only exposed individual misconduct but also reshaped
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026