Bill Gates has publicly acknowledged that he made a "huge mistake" in associating with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. During a recent town hall meeting with staff at the Gates Foundation, he confessed to having had affairs with two Russian women, while firmly denying any involvement in Epstein's crimes. Gates' admissions are revealed amid the release of documents by the US Justice Department that detail his close connections and meetings with Epstein, highlighting the complexities surrounding his personal and professional relationships.

Gates commented on the negative impact of his association with Epstein on the operations of his charitable organization, stating that it was wrong to involve executives from the Gates Foundation in meetings with Epstein. He expressed regret for any harm caused to others as a result of his actions, emphasizing that his interactions with Epstein were a misstep that detracted from the important work undertaken by the foundation.

This revelation adds to the ongoing scrutiny faced by individuals connected to Epstein, as the released documents raise questions about accountability and the extent of Gates' relationships within a controversial network. The implications of Gates' admissions may resonate beyond the charitable sector, potentially affecting public perceptions of his philanthropic efforts in light of his past decisions.