Melania Trump says rumours linking her to Epstein 'need to stop'

First Lady Melania Trump has denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, telling reporters at the White House that any claims linking the two "need to end today".

In a surprise announcement on Thursday, the First Lady called for Congressional hearings for survivors of his Epstein's sex trafficking.

She also denied online rumours that Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump, calling them "mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation".

It is unclear what prompted the announcement.