Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan have reportedly departed from Romania using a private jet, taking off around 5am local time (3am British time) from Baneasa airport. Sources in Bucharest have indicated that the brothers are likely heading to the United States.
This development follows recent pressure from officials within the Trump administration on Romanian authorities to lift restrictions that had previously barred the brothers from leaving the country. The Tates, both dual nationals of the US and the UK, were arrested in December 2022 on multiple serious charges, including human trafficking, sexual misconduct, money laundering, and forming an organised crime group; both have denied all allegations.
The advocates for the Tates reported that US officials addressed their case via a phone call to Romanian authorities in early February, followed by a personal meeting between Richard Grenell, Trump's special envoy, and Romania’s foreign minister. According to reports from the Financial Times, a request was made for the return of the Tates' passports, which would allow them to travel while their legal proceedings unfold.
Since their arrest in December 2022, the brothers' movements have been severely restricted. They spent three months in police custody before transitioning to house arrest, which continued until the recent lifting of travel restrictions.
Alongside their ongoing legal issues in Romania, the Tates are also facing allegations in the UK, where they are wanted for charges related to rape and human trafficking. A court in Bucharest has indicated that they could be extradited to Britain following the resolution of their current case in Romania.
In a statement, the brothers expressed their commitment to working closely with their legal team, stating they would explore “every legal avenue available within the framework of Romania's judicial system." They emphasised their focus on ensuring due process and asserting their innocence in a court of law.
Despite this, Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has denied any claims that the Trump administration exerted pressure to have the Tates’ travel restrictions lifted. The controversy surrounding the issue has also sparked distress among the alleged victims, with Matthew Jury, a legal representative for four women claiming to be victims of Tate, stating that they are “absolutely distraught” upon learning of the Trump administration’s involvement. Jury highlighted the emotional impact of the situation, given the serious nature of the allegations and the significant public interest surrounding the case.
This situation continues to evolve, and further details are expected to emerge as the Tates navigate their ongoing legal challenges.
Source: Noah Wire Services