‘Huge mistake’: Bill Gates apologises to foundation staff over Jeffrey Epstein ties; admits having affairs with Russian women
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 25, 2026
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Bill Gates has apologised to staff at the Gates Foundation for his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, calling it a “huge mistake” that damaged the organisation’s reputation. While Gates maintained he did nothing illicit during his years-long relationship with Epstein, he acknowledged not properly vetting the convicted sex offender and admitted spending time with him despite knowing about Epstein’s legal troubles. Gates also revealed during an internal town hall meeting that he had affairs with Russian women while married to Melinda French Gates, though he clarified these relationships were unrelated to Epstein’s victims.
The controversy stems from newly released “Epstein files,” which include emails, photos, and call logs detailing Epstein’s connections with prominent figures. Gates admitted to meeting Epstein multiple times after his 2008 guilty plea for soliciting underage prostitution, continuing until at least 2014. Despite these meetings, Gates claimed he never stayed overnight or visited Epstein’s private island, and denied any wrongdoing linked to Epstein’s victims.
Gates’ ties with Epstein resurfaced last month when the US Department of Justice released thousands of documents related to Epstein’s operations. These files revealed that Gates and Epstein discussed philanthropic efforts during their meetings, which Gates now regrets. A spokesperson for the Gates Foundation confirmed that no financial payments were made to Epstein, but acknowledged that his association had cast a negative shadow over the foundation’s reputation.
The fallout has significant implications for Gates’ philanthropic work, as the foundation relies heavily on its credibility to attract partners and funding for global health, education, and development initiatives. Gates himself emphasised the reputational risk, stating that the foundation’s values are central to its mission and vulnerable to public scrutiny. His apology comes amid growing calls to hold wealthy and influential figures accountable for their past actions, particularly those tied to Epstein’s network of alleged misconduct.
Overall, Bill Gates’ admissions highlight the challenges faced by high
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026