New Delhi, April 10 -- US First Lady Melania Trump issued a forceful denial of any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, calling circulating claims "completely false" and labeling them as defamatory attacks on her reputation.

"The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today," she said. "The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility and respect."

She emphasized that she had never had any relationship with Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

Melania Trump acknowledged occasional overlap in elite social settings.

"Donald and I were invited to the same parties as Epstein from time to time, since overlapping in social circles is common in New York City."

She described her interaction ...