Fallout from Epstein Files Reaches UK's Highest Levels

Prince Andrew loses titles, Mandelson resigns as ambassador amid new revelations

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The latest release of Jeffrey Epstein's files has ignited a firestorm in Europe, particularly in the UK, where the scandal has touched the monarchy, government, and political elite. Prince Andrew has lost his titles and home, while former ambassador Peter Mandelson resigned after being linked to Epstein. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is also facing criticism for appointing Mandelson as ambassador despite his ties to Epstein.

Why it matters

The Epstein scandal has struck at the heart of the British establishment, raising questions about what the monarchy and government knew and when. The repercussions are being felt most acutely in the UK, where senior figures have lost positions and the integrity of institutions is being challenged.

The details

The newly released files show the extensive connections between Epstein and members of the European elite, including the UK's Prince Andrew and former government minister Peter Mandelson. Prince Andrew has been stripped of his titles and forced to vacate his home, while Mandelson resigned as British ambassador to the US after being linked to Epstein. Police have also launched an investigation into potential misconduct in public office related to Mandelson's dealings with Epstein.

  • In October 2022, Prince Andrew was stripped of his titles after the release of email exchanges with Epstein.
  • On Monday, Prince Andrew vacated his home at Royal Lodge on the King's Sandringham Estate.
  • Last week, a second woman came forward accusing Epstein of trafficking her to have sex with Prince Andrew in 2010.
  • In September 2022, Mandelson was removed from his post as British ambassador following the release of Epstein's "Birthday Book" which referred to Mandelson as his "best pal".
  • On Monday, Mandelson submitted his resignation from the House of Lords.

The players

Prince Andrew

Formerly Prince Andrew, Duke of York, he was stripped of his titles and forced to vacate his home after being linked to the Epstein scandal.

Peter Mandelson

A former British government minister, nicknamed the "Prince of Darkness", who resigned as British ambassador to the US after being linked to Jeffrey Epstein.

Keir Starmer

The current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, who is facing criticism for appointing Mandelson as ambassador despite his ties to Epstein.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late American sex offender whose connections to the global elite have sparked a major scandal.

Virginia Giuffre

One of Epstein's victims who accused Prince Andrew of sexual assault, leading to a civil suit settlement.

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What they’re saying

“The scandal seems to matter more here, with graver consequences, because it strikes at the monarchy, the British establishment and the political elite. It's not just about the behavior of one disgraced man.”

— Robert Jobson, Royal author and ABC royal contributor (ABC News)

“The central issue in the Epstein scandal has never been Andrew alone. It is the question the Palace has spent more than a decade avoiding: What did the late queen and King Charles know? And when did they know it?”

— Robert Jobson, Royal author and ABC royal contributor (ABC News)

“I regret appointing him. If I knew then what I know now, he would never been anywhere near government.”

— Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (House of Commons)

“The victims of Epstein have lived with trauma that most of us can barely comprehend, and they've had to relive it again and again. They have seen accountability delayed and too often denied. To them, I want to say this: I am sorry. Sorry for what was done to you. Sorry that so many people with power failed you. Sorry for having believed Mandelson's lies and appointed him.”

— Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (Press conference)

“Britain has dethroned a prince, forced Mandelson to resign, & lost confidence in Starmer because @RepThomasMassie & I forced the release of the Epstein files. What is America doing to hold the Epstein class accountable?”

— Ro Khanna, U.S. Representative (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case against Prince Andrew will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

The Epstein scandal has shaken the foundations of the British establishment, exposing the deep connections between the global elite and a convicted sex offender. This has led to the downfall of high-profile figures, raised questions about accountability, and challenged the integrity of the monarchy and government.