Fallout from Epstein files release reaches highest levels of UK society

The DOJ's latest Epstein files release has roiled the highest levels of British society, embroiling the former Prince Andrew and ex-ambassador Peter Mandelson.

While the latest release of Epstein files has touched off another round of controversy in the U.S., it has ignited a veritable firestorm in Europe, where the new tranche of emails, text messages, videos on photographs released by the Department of Justice has painted a far more comprehensive picture of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's relationship with members of the global elite.

And while a mention in the files does not immediately imply wrongdoing, last week's data dump has led to a chorus of high-profile figures explaining, and in many cases apologizing for, their connection to Epstein. Reputations have been tarnished, in some cases irrevocably.

These latest files show the range and depth of Epstein's extraordinary reach into the upper echelons of society. Among the new names from the European elite are Norway's crown princess and the Slovak national security adviser.

For now, the repercussions are being felt the most acutely in the U.K., where a prince of the realm has lost his title and his home, a senior member of the governing Labour party has lost his position in the House of Lords, a police investigation has been launched into misconduct in public office, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer -- whose name has not appeared in the released files -- is now fighting for his political survival.

The recently published files have laid bare the extent of Epstein's contact with the former Prince Andrew and former British Ambassador Peter Mandelson -- touching off a crisis at both the heart of the government and the monarchy.