Social media influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan have left Romania for the United States amid ongoing investigations into human trafficking and other serious charges. The departure follows reports of pressure from the Trump administration on Romanian authorities to lift travel restrictions on the brothers.
Andrew and Tristan Tate, who are dual U.S.-British citizens, were arrested in late 2022 and formally indicted last year on charges of participating in a criminal ring that lured women to Romania, where they were sexually exploited. Andrew Tate also faces charges of rape. Both brothers have consistently denied the allegations against them.
The Romanian Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) confirmed that prosecutors approved a request to modify the travel restrictions, allowing the Tates to leave the country. However, the agency did not specify who made the request. The brothers are still required to appear before judicial authorities when summoned and could face stricter measures if they violate these obligations.
The decision to lift the travel ban has sparked widespread criticism and concern. Four British women who have accused Andrew Tate of rape and physical assault between 2013 and 2016 voiced their worries that the U.S. government might be pressuring Romania to ease travel restrictions on the Tates. Romania's Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu acknowledged that the case was mentioned during a meeting with Trump's special envoy Richard Grenell but denied that any pressure was applied.
The Tates' departure comes as a significant setback for Romanian prosecutors, who have been investigating the brothers for years. Despite the travel ban being lifted, the case against the Tates remains open, and they are expected to return to Romania for further legal proceedings.
As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and holding those responsible accountable. The case highlights the complexities and challenges of international legal cooperation and the importance of upholding the rule of law.
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