SEATTLE — A spokesperson for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation confirmed to Reuters that Gates addressed his ties to Jeffrey Epstein directly during a scheduled staff meeting. The admission comes as the foundation—one of the world’s most influential philanthropic organizations—faces internal and external pressure over the billionaire’s past association with the disgraced financier.
Key Admissions from the Town Hall
According to recordings obtained by The Wall Street Journal, Gates was blunt about the damage caused by his judgment:
- The Apology: “I apologize to other people who are drawn into this because of the mistake that I made,” Gates told employees.
- Involving the Foundation: He specifically expressed regret for bringing Gates Foundation executives into meetings with Epstein.
- The “Mistake” Context: Gates maintained that his meetings, which occurred after Epstein’s first prison term, were strictly centered on attempting to raise billions for global health initiatives.
Addressing the DOJ Files: Images and Affairs
The town hall served as a “damage control” session following the DOJ’s disclosure of millions of documents.
- Redacted Photos: Documents included photos of Gates posing with women (whose faces are redacted). Gates told staff these were Epstein’s “assistants” and that he was asked to take the photos after meetings.
- Russian Affairs: Gates reportedly acknowledged two past affairs with Russian women—affairs Epstein reportedly discovered and used as leverage—but clarified that these women were not involved with Epstein’s trafficking victims.
- “Nothing Illicit”: Gates reiterated a firm denial of any wrongdoing: “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit.”
Impact on Global Standing
The fallout from the Epstein files has already had a tangible impact on Gates’ public schedule.
- India AI Summit Exit: Just last week, Gates abruptly cancelled his keynote address at India’s AI Impact Summit in New Delhi just hours before he was set to speak.
- Foundation Statement: The Gates Foundation has officially stated it never made financial payments to Epstein or employed him.
Fact Sheet: The Gates-Epstein Connection (2026 Disclosure)
| Category | Gates’ Explanation | Document Evidence |
| Primary Goal | Philanthropic fundraising | Frequent meetings and emails discussing “global health.” |
| Photographic Evidence | Photos with “assistants” | Multiple images with redacted individuals in DOJ files. |
| Personal Conduct | Admits to unrelated affairs; denies illicit acts | Epstein reportedly had knowledge of Gates’ private life. |
| Outcome | “A huge mistake” | Significant reputational damage and cancelled global appearances. |