French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly addressed the Jeffrey Epstein case for the first time, more than a week after millions of documents released by U.S. authorities triggered widespread international attention.
Speaking from Paris, Macron emphasized that the matter should be handled by the American justice system, avoiding direct comments about the content of the documents or the individuals mentioned in them.
“American justice must do its job,” Macron stated during his remarks to the media.
Macron Expresses Support for Victims but Avoids Direct Commentary
The French president said his thoughts are with the victims of the case, while stressing that it is not his role to comment on an ongoing investigation. At the same time, Macron referred to the resignation of Jacques Lang, President of the Arab World Institute, noting that Lang made the decision to step down independently.
“This is a case I cannot comment on. Jacques Lang made his own decision,” Macron said, confirming that the resignation was announced over the weekend.
French Public Figures Mentioned in Released Documents
Macron’s reaction follows the publication of millions of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice related to the Epstein case. The files have brought attention to well-known names from politics, arts, and culture across several countries, including France.
According to the released material, Jacques Lang, former French Minister of Culture during François Mitterrand’s presidency, is reportedly mentioned around 600 times. In some instances, the name of his daughter also appears. However, officials have clarified that being mentioned in the documents does not automatically constitute criminal charges, and authorities have not confirmed direct involvement in illegal activities.
In addition to Lang, other French public figures reportedly referenced in the documents include Olivier Colom, former adviser to ex-President Nicolas Sarkozy, renowned conductor Frederic Chaslin, and Oscar-winning film director Michel Hazanavicius.
Renewed Debate Over Institutional Accountability and Transparency
The release of the Epstein files has reignited debates regarding institutional responsibility, transparency, and the handling of sensitive cases involving public figures. U.S. authorities are expected to continue their investigations to clarify the role of each individual mentioned in the documents.
