Melania Trump: ‘I never had a relationship with Epstein’

Melania Trump Denies Ties to Jeffrey Epstein

First Lady Melania Trump has dismissed claims of ties to Jeffrey Epstein, stating at the White House that any associations between the two “must conclude today.” In a surprise statement, she urged congressional hearings to investigate survivors of Epstein’s alleged sex trafficking activities. The remarks mark her latest stance on the matter.

“I never had a relationship with Epstein,” Trump asserted, signaling a shift in her public narrative.

Artemis II Mission Breaks Records

The Artemis II crew, including Jeremy Hansen, the first Canadian astronaut to venture into deep space, launched their historic mission after a series of delays. The BBC’s Science Editor Rebecca Morelle was present three miles from the launch site, witnessing the departure of the most powerful rocket ever built. The four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft now hold a new record for the farthest distance traveled from Earth.

On the third day of their lunar orbit journey, the crew communicated via video link, sharing personal reflections and messages for loved ones. The U.S. aims to be the first nation to land humans on the Moon again by 2028, making this mission a critical step toward that goal.

Gas Prices and Economic Sentiment

The U.S. has seen gasoline prices exceed $4 at the pump for the first time since 2022, driven by ongoing tensions with Iran. The BBC’s Gary O’Donoghue highlighted a Alabama farmer who remains steadfast in his support for President Trump despite economic challenges.

NASA’s Innovations for Lunar Exploration

For the 10-day mission, NASA scientists have developed a new “universal waste management system” — or space loo — to support crew operations. Training for the Artemis II flight took place at the Johnson Space Center in Texas, beginning soon after the crew was named in 2023.

Protests and Political Climate

Large demonstrations against the Trump administration were held in major U.S. cities, featuring the third iteration of No Kings rallies. The BBC’s Ione Wells reported on activists and attendees gathered outside the Supreme Court during a hearing on Trump’s executive order.

Meanwhile, the annual CPAC conference in Texas saw mixed reactions from conservative attendees regarding the current economic state.

TSA Challenges Amid Partial Shutdown

Travel disruptions have intensified at U.S. airports, with TSA agents working without pay during a partial government shutdown. The situation has led to some of the longest delays in the nation’s aviation history.