In 2025 lawmakers in the US voted overwhelmingly to release the Epstein files, a vast archive of evidence collected in connection with convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein made public in stages. The final batch triggered global fallout, including the arrests in the UK of former prince Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor and ex‑ambassador Peter Mandelson over allegations of sharing confidential information. In the US, the files exposed ties among prominent figures, while disputes continue over whether more documents should be released.