Epstein files shed more light on Steve Bannon’s efforts to influence European politics

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Angela Giuffrida in Rome, Deborah Cole in Berlin and Angelique Chrisafis in ParisFebruary 5, 2026 at 05:43 PM

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Newly released Epstein files reveal Steve Bannon's efforts to solicit support and funding from Jeffrey Epstein to bolster far-right parties in Europe between 2018 and 2019. Bannon, Donald Trump's former chief strategist, aimed to unite ultra-rightwing and Eurosceptic forces in the European parliament, focusing on figures like Matteo Salvini in Italy and Marine Le Pen in France. The files detail Bannon's communications about raising money for these leaders and promoting Alternative für Deutschland while criticizing Angela Merkel. While there's no evidence of direct links between Salvini and Epstein or involvement in Epstein's sex-trafficking network, the messages highlight Epstein's interest in European nationalists and Bannon's ambition to increase nationalist power in Brussels.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Alternative für Deutschland 40% Angela Merkel 40% Italy 50% Donald Trump ×250% Germany ×250% France ×250% League ×350% European Parliament ×260% Marine Le Pen ×260% Matteo Salvini ×570% Jeffrey Epstein ×980% Steve Bannon ×990%

Keywords

steve bannon 100% jeffrey epstein 90% european politics 80% far-right parties 80% political influence 70% fundraising 60% matteo salvini 60% eurosceptic forces 50% marine le pen 50% epstein files 40%

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The Guardian - World News

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steve bannon jeffrey epstein european politics far-right parties political influence fundraising matteo salvini eurosceptic forces marine le pen epstein files

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