Fresh revelations from the latest Epstein files have uncovered a curious and persistent fascination that the convicted sex offender held for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The documents, which mention Putin's name over a thousand times, paint a picture of unrequited interest, with Epstein making numerous attempts to arrange a meeting through diplomatic channels.
A One-Sided Courtship: Epstein's Repeated Overtures
From 2013 onwards, the email correspondence reveals that Jeffrey Epstein made several concerted bids to engage with Vladimir Putin. His primary conduit was Thorbjorn Jagland, the former Prime Minister of Norway who was serving as Secretary-General of the Council of Europe at the time. Despite Epstein's efforts, there is no evidence to suggest that any meeting between the two men ever took place, highlighting what appears to be a case of unrequited political admiration.
Early Mentions and Audio Coaching
The first substantive reference to Vladimir Putin in these files dates back to September 2011. An unnamed contact alludes to a meeting Epstein claimed to have arranged with Putin, who was then Russia's prime minister. However, no corroborating details or proof of this encounter exist. Adding to the intrigue, an audio file included in the release captures Epstein coaching someone on how to approach Putin, advising a brief and direct invitation for dinner during a trip to Europe.
Persistent Emails and Diplomatic Efforts
In May 2013, Epstein emailed Jagland, noting Putin's upcoming meeting and offering to provide a solution for attracting Western investment to Russia. Epstein wrote, "I know you are going to meet putin on the 20th, He is desperate to engage western investment in his country...I have his solution." He further suggested a meeting in June to discuss economic priorities, but this proposal went unanswered despite follow-up attempts.
By January 2014, Jagland invited Epstein to join him for a meeting with Putin in Sochi, yet the outcome remains unknown. Later that year, in July, Epstein referenced the tragic downing of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 as a reason to delay plans, but his interest quickly resurfaced. In July 2015, he told Jagland, "I still would like to meet putin and talk economy, i would really appreciate your assistance." Further attempts were recorded in 2016, 2017, and as late as June 2018, with Epstein simply stating, "Would love to meet with putin."
Kremlin Response and Media Silence
When questioned about these files, the Kremlin stated on Tuesday that it had not received any offers from Epstein regarding a meeting with Vladimir Putin. Interestingly, Russian media coverage of this story has been minimal, with focus shifting to other figures mentioned in the files, such as Bill Clinton and Peter Mandelson. This selective reporting suggests a reluctance to highlight Putin's appearance in the Epstein documents, even though no wrongdoing or direct connection is implied.
Overall, the files reveal a persistent yet unsuccessful campaign by Jeffrey Epstein to court the Russian leader, underscoring a one-sided dynamic that adds a new layer to the ongoing scrutiny of Epstein's associations and activities.
