Bill Gates stated that he takes responsibility for his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and apologized to his employees.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates acknowledged in an internal meeting of the Gates Foundation that his ties to Jeffrey Epstein had a negative impact on the organization's reputation. Gates apologized to employees for these relationships, emphasizing that the meetings with Epstein, which began in 2011, were a huge mistake. Although he denied any involvement in illegal activities, he admitted that he did not sufficiently check Epstein's past, who pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor in 2008. Gates acknowledged that he continued the meetings even after his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, expressed her concerns.

He explained that the meetings included flights on Epstein's private jet and meetings in various locations, but he emphasized that he did not spend time with his victims. Gates also discussed his extramarital relationships, stating that they were unrelated to Epstein. Recently published documents suggest that his association with Epstein contributed to normalizing his image. Gates acknowledged that these revelations affect the foundation's reputation, which continues to carry out important projects in global health and education. A spokesperson for the foundation confirmed that Gates addressed the topic openly and answered employees' questions.