US lawmakers tell BBC Andrew should testify over Epstein files

Members of the United States Congress urged Prince Andrew to finally cooperate with investigations into his ties with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein during a series of discussions in Washington this week, following King Charles III's public declaration that the Royal Family would support police inquiries. The push from American lawmakers follows the release of hundreds of pages of unsealed court documents that featured the Duke of York's name dozens of times, sparking renewed interest in his historical connection to Epstein’s sex-trafficking network. Lawmakers are seeking a formal testimony to clarify the Prince's role and knowledge of the illicit activities, arguing that royal immunity should not preclude him from assisting federal authorities. The renewed pressure on the Duke of York marks a significant escalation in the long-standing legal saga. For years, the U.S. Department of Justice has sought to question Prince Andrew regarding his friendship with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, yet those efforts have frequently been met with diplomatic hurdles and legal pushback from the Prince's legal team. However, the political climate has shifted following the King’s recent statement, which suggests a softening of the palace’s protective stance. Lawmakers believe this presents a vital window of opportunity to obtain testimony that has been sought since the initial fallout in 2019. In London, the Royal Family appears to be distancing itself from the controversy by emphasizing transparency and cooperation with law enforcement. While the King did not specifically name his brother in his recent comments, the willingness to assist police inquiries is being interpreted internationally as a signal that the monarchy will no longer act as a shield against legitimate legal examination. This is particularly relevant as victims’ advocates in the United States continue to call for accountability from all high-profile figures named in the unsealed files. Legal experts suggest that while the U.S. cannot easily compel a member of the British Royal Family to testify on foreign soil, the combined weight of congressional interest and the King’s shift in rhetoric could force a settlement or a voluntary deposition. This development adds another layer of complexity to the Duke’s standing, as he remains stripped of his military titles and royal patronages. The coming months will likely determine whether the Prince decides to engage with the American legal system or continue his policy of silence despite growing international pressure.