Full Breakdown
Prince Laurent of Belgium Admits Meetings with Jeffrey Epstein
2/3/2026, 9:59:13 AM
Prince Laurent's Admission of Meetings
Belgium’s Prince Laurent, the younger brother of King Philippe, confirmed on February 2, 2023, that he had two private meetings with Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier convicted of sex crimes. The encounters occurred at Epstein's request and took place in the early 1990s and early 2000s. Prince Laurent clarified that he had never attended any public or group events with Epstein, a statement that followed an earlier claim asserting he had "never, directly or indirectly, attended an event" with the financier or his associates.
Context of the Meetings
The prince stated that Epstein initially reached out to him while he was interning at the United Nations and later at a New York bank, seeking an introduction to his royal parents. Laurent declined this overture and other invitations from Epstein. Approximately a decade later, he was invited to a dinner in Paris that included a head of state and influential figures, which he also declined.
Background on Jeffrey Epstein
Jeffrey Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex crimes against minors, had previously pleaded guilty in 2008 to soliciting a minor for prostitution. His connections with various high-profile individuals have drawn scrutiny, particularly following the release of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice that reference numerous prominent figures, including Prince Laurent.
Criticism and Related Royal Connections
Prince Laurent is not the only royal mentioned in the recent Epstein documents. Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit faced backlash after it was revealed that she had maintained a friendship with Epstein, exchanging numerous emails and meeting him on several occasions between 2011 and 2014. Mette-Marit later expressed regret for her association with Epstein, acknowledging poor judgment in not thoroughly checking his background.
Additionally, Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, reportedly visited Epstein with her daughters shortly after his release from prison in 2009. Emails indicate that Ferguson arranged the visit, during which Epstein prepared a meal for them at his Palm Beach mansion. This connection has raised questions about the judgment of royal figures in their associations with Epstein.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the revelations, Prince Laurent emphasized that he is not accused of any wrongdoing. His admissions come amid a broader examination of the relationships between Epstein and various high-profile individuals, which has sparked discussions about accountability and the implications of such associations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “public or group events” — Prince Laurent of Belgium
- “'I showed poor judgment and I deeply regret having had any contact with Epstein.” — Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway
Conclusion
The disclosures surrounding Prince Laurent's meetings with Jeffrey Epstein highlight the complex web of relationships involving the financier and various royals. As investigations continue and more documents are released, the implications for those associated with Epstein remain a topic of significant public interest and scrutiny.
