Peter Mandelson, the British ambassador to the United States, has been dismissed due to his connections with the late American financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the UK Foreign Office announced on Thursday. The decision comes just days before President Donald Trump’s official visit to London.
Emails between Mandelson, a 71-year-old Labour Party veteran, and Epstein, who was accused of sexually exploiting minors and died in custody under suspicious circumstances, were revealed this week, according to AFP.
The Foreign Office stated:
“The depth and breadth of Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein significantly differ from what was known at the time of his ambassadorial appointment. In light of this, and out of respect for the victims of Epstein’s crimes, he has been removed from his position with immediate effect.”
The case highlights ongoing political and legal scrutiny in the US regarding connections between Epstein and high-profile figures, including former President Trump. Allegations involve trafficking of sexual services, including minors. Trump has denied the existence of a client list, though authorities reportedly possess documents relevant to ongoing investigations.
