Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, has acknowledged in a recent town hall meeting that he had extramarital affairs with two Russian women, one being a bridge player and the other a nuclear physicist. Gates asserted that these women were not victims of Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender, and he claimed ignorance regarding Epstein's criminal activities. This admission comes in light of past reports that Epstein attempted to blackmail Gates with information about these affairs after providing financial support to one of the women involved.

Gates detailed his past associations with Epstein, highlighting their relationship beginning in 2011 after Epstein was convicted on charges related to sex trafficking of minors. He noted that despite their interactions, he had not engaged in illegal activities or knowingly spent time with Epstein's victims. Gates clarified that he never visited Epstein's private island or stayed overnight with him, but admitted that meeting with Epstein and involving foundation executives in discussions with him was a “huge mistake.” He expressed regret for how his actions may have affected others, extending apologies to those impacted by the connections.

The revelations have raised concerns about Gates' judgment and associations, particularly given Epstein's notorious background. As a prominent philanthropist, Gates' ties to such a controversial figure may affect public perceptions of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's work. This incident underscores ongoing discussions regarding ethics and accountability among high-profile individuals and their associations with problematic figures.