Microsoft founder admits past affairs and details blackmail fears
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently told a US congressional panel about three past affairs. He also accused late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein of planning to blackmail him over these relationships. Lawmakers requested his testimony after the Justice Department released new documents. These files brought fresh attention to his meetings with the disgraced financier.
Gates spoke to the US House Oversight Committee on June 10. He confirmed affairs with Russian bridge player Mila Antonova, nuclear physicist Karima Nigmatulina, and medical entrepreneur Alice Jacobs Nesselrodt. Epstein knew about two of these women. Gates explained that these infidelities caused deep pain for his family. He stressed they were completely separate from his actual interactions with Epstein.
Exploitation and leverage attempts
During questioning, Gates suggested Epstein wanted to use these secrets for leverage. He said Epstein considered blackmailing him to force further contact. A 2013 email draft written by Epstein referenced Gates' private life. Gates viewed this message as an effort to mix facts with lies to gain an advantage. He noted that actual blackmail never happened, but the threat felt real. For historical context, Epstein often built his powerful network by collecting compromising material on global elites to secure funding and protection.
Lawmakers also asked about rumours regarding sexually transmitted infections. Gates strongly denied ever having an STD or secretly giving anyone medication. He admitted he met Epstein about 12 to 14 times over four years. Their discussions mostly focused on philanthropy. Gates hoped Epstein could connect him with wealthy donors for global charity work. Those promises never came true. He called his decision to keep in touch with Epstein a mistake.
Public attention has now reached his charity. Leaders there announced an external review of past communications with Epstein. Justice Department files revealed emails between Epstein and foundation staff members. Gates recently took responsibility for his choices during a company meeting.
