On Feb. 19, disgraced former prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicions of misconduct in a public office. One of the most well-known associates of Jeffrey Epstein, Andrew’s arrest represents one of the strongest reactions following the release of more than 3.5 million new files in the Epstein case by the U.S. Department of Justice. Even beyond the United States, the newly released files are making political waves around the world. 

In the United Kingdom, the Epstein files’ release has rocked both the royal family and the government. Long before this year’s release of new files, former prince Andrew had been the source of contention within the royals public image due to known ties to Epstein. In Nov. 2025, under mounting tensions surrounding Epstein, Andrew was stripped of his title of Prince and Duke of York and had his status as a royal effectively removed. His February arrest was due to accusations that he had shared confidential government information with Epstein. He was released several hours later, and at the time of writing, police investigations are still ongoing. The royal family’s response has been quiet, with King Charles III simply saying that he supports a “full, fair and proper process” with his brother, Andrew.

In parliament, Prime Minister Keir Starmer nearly avoided a vote of no confidence when new documents about Starmer’s former ambassador to the United States, Peter Mandelson, showed the extent of his relationship with Epstein. Mandelson was removed from his position back in September 2025 due to his connections with Epstein. He also stepped down from his position in the House of Lords and the Labor party.

“I am sorry, sorry for what was done to you, sorry that so many people with power failed you,” Prime Minister Starmer said before a speech, “Sorry for having believed this man’s lies and appointed him. I’m sorry that even now you’re forced to watch this story unfold in public once again.” While Starmer admitted to parliament he knew that Mandelson and Epstein had a connection, he claims that Mandelson had lied about the extent of their bond. Due to his appointment of Mandelson, the Prime Minister faced some calls to resign, even within his own party. Eventually, his chief of staff, who hired Mandelson and was mentored by him, announced his resignation. 

The British response to their political figural implicated by their ties to Epstein has been swift, while the American response has felt comparatively slow. President Trump has repeatedly downplayed the importance of the files, a political blunder that fueled the bipartisan calls for their release. Bill Gates, another well-known Epstein associate, has denied any wrongdoing. Bill and Hillary Clinton were nearly charged with contempt of congress after avoiding summons to testify on their relationship with Epstein, though they have now agreed to testify in late February.

Article by Oscar Guillemin