‘Huge mistake’: Bill Gates apologises for Epstein ties

The executive also told employees he started meeting Epstein in 2011, several years after Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to soliciting a minor for prostitution.  

He added that he was aware of an “18-month thing” limiting Epstein’s travel but admitted he did not properly investigate his background before agreeing to meet him.  

Gates also acknowledged his personal misconduct issues, telling staff he had two extramarital affairs — one with a Russian bridge player he met at competitions and another with a Russian nuclear physicist he met through business activities.  

Describing the impact on the Gates Foundation, Gates said his connection with Epstein ran counter to the organisation’s principles.  

A foundation spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal that Gates holds town halls twice a year and that, at this week’s session, he “spoke candidly, addressing several questions in detail, and took responsibility for his actions,” according to The Guardian.