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‘Zero connection with Jeffrey’: Trump denies Epstein link claims about Melania, calls it fake news

On his differences with Pope, Trump insisted there was no personal conflict, even as he disagreed with the Pope’s stance on Iran.

Published on: Apr 17, 2026, 11:01:53 IST
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After Melania Trump’s recent statement confirming that she had no relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and was not one of his victims, Donald Trump on Wednesday denied the claims and called them “fake news.”

Trump denies Epstein link claims about Melania. (AFP)
Trump denies Epstein link claims about Melania. (AFP)

Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Trump said, “The fake news was saying she did and she had none. And I think that's been proven, it bothered her that the fake news was being fake news. And so she just wanted to clarify that.”

Interview on Pope, Iran and Europe

Trump also spoke on a range of unrelated global issues during the same interview. On his differences with Pope, Trump insisted there was no personal conflict, even as he disagreed with the Pope’s stance on Iran.

“I have nothing against the Pope. His brother is MAGA all the way. I like his brother, Louis.”

When asked why he appeared to be in disagreement, Trump said, “I’m not fighting with him. The Pope made a statement. He says Iran can have a nuclear weapon. I say Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I have a right to disagree with the Pope.”

Criticism of Europe’s Energy Choices

Trump also criticised European countries for their energy policies, particularly their use of wind power.

“They should be buying more from us and what they should be doing is using the North Sea,” he said.

“They’re not doing it. They’re doing windmills. Windmills do ONE thing. You know what they do? Put ya out of business," he added.

Earlier, in interviews with American media, Trump suggested that extending the current ceasefire - set to expire next week - may not be necessary, raising expectations of a possible breakthrough.

"I think Iran war can be over very soon," he said in a Fox Business Network interview, while telling ABC News that a deal, though not essential, would be preferable to allow rebuilding.

Talks may restart within days

Diplomatic efforts appear to be regaining momentum after an initial round of talks in Pakistan ended without agreement. Officials familiar with the negotiations indicated that both sides are working to finalise a second round, potentially within days.

Trump himself told US media to expect an “amazing two days ahead,” suggesting imminent developments. Vice president JD Vance, who led the previous negotiations, also expressed cautious optimism despite lingering mistrust between Washington and Tehran.

Back-channel discussions since the weekend have reportedly narrowed differences, raising hopes that a framework deal could soon emerge.

  • Shivya Kanojia
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Shivya Kanojia

    Shivya Kanojia is a journalist at Hindustan Times, where she works in the fast-paced digital news ecosystem with a strong sense of editorial judgement and a clear understanding of what makes a story both important and traffic-driven. An alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Shivya brings a thoughtful balance of news value and audience relevance to her work, ensuring stories resonate beyond the immediate headline. Over the course of her three-year journey in the digital news space, Shivya has worked across a wide range of beats, including politics, civic issues, human-interest features and trending news. This diverse exposure has shaped her ability to approach stories with nuance, adaptability and context, whether she is breaking down complex developments or spotlighting everyday narratives that often go unnoticed. She is particularly drawn to human-interest stories, interviews and explainers that offer depth and clarity, aiming to move past surface-level reporting to explore the people, emotions and circumstances behind the news. Prior to joining Hindustan Times, Shivya worked with Firstpost and Times Now, where she covered a broad spectrum of topics and honed her skills in digital journalism . Outside the newsroom, Shivya enjoys discovering new cafés, drawn to good coffee, cosy spaces and unhurried conversations. Shopping is another pastime she cherishes, not always out of necessity, but often guided by instinct and the simple joy of stumbling upon unexpected finds. Above all, she treasures time spent with loved ones, finding meaning in shared laughter, simple moments and memories that linger long after.Read More

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