Amid Epstein Scrutiny, Bill Gates Backs Out of Speech

Bill Gates appears to be lying low after being mentioned in files related to Jeffrey Epstein. The Microsoft co-founder made the trip to India for a major AI conference in New Delhi, but abruptly dropped his star turn on stage, reports the Guardian. Gates had been scheduled to give a keynote address at the AI Impact Summit on Thursday, speaking soon after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and in front of French President Emmanuel Macron, among others. But less than 48 hours after confirming the appearance, the Gates Foundation said Gates had pulled out of the speech "to ensure the focus remains on the AI summit's key priorities."

The move comes amid renewed scrutiny of Gates' past ties to Epstein. He has denied allegations that he acquired an STI from "sex with Russian girls," and tried to hide it from his then-wife, Melinda French Gates, as mentioned in draft emails from Epstein. The Epstein files also contain numerous communications after Epstein's 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for prostitution, per CNN. Gates has said he regrets his interactions with Epstein, which he said were centered on philanthropy, and that he only attended dinners with the financier. The foundation says it remains committed to its work in India and that regional president Ankur Vora will be at the summit in Gates' place.