Paolo Zampolli, the Italian modeling agent who introduced Melania to Donald Trump at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998, is speaking out as scrutiny grows around his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein and as a former partner makes online threats.
Zampolli says he remembers the moment clearly. He described telling Melania and Donald to meet at the event, then leaving the table because he had “300 guests.” He also said he is prepared to testify about what he calls “nonsense,” adding that Melania has denied any connection to Epstein.
In remarks tied to the renewed attention, Misryoum newsroom reported that Zampolli is downplaying any personal connection to Epstein, framing their relationship as strictly professional. “For me, Jeffrey Epstein was a financial partner of Victoria’s Secret,” he said, referencing the lingerie company once run by Epstein’s associate Les Wexner. Zampolli said they “never get along, thank God,” but that he had to maintain a “very cordial relationship.” He also said his stance is based on the belief that Epstein-related claims are being dragged into public debate again.
While Zampolli has not been accused of wrongdoing, Misryoum editorial desk noted that his name appears multiple times in documents referenced in connection with Epstein, including references in past reporting and witness accounts. The renewed focus, in turn, has intensified attention on how overlapping social and business circles are being discussed.
The controversy took another turn after a woman believed to be Zampolli’s ex, Brazilian model Amanda Ungaro, posted messages online claiming she would “expose everything that I know.” Misryoum analysis indicates the messages directly responded to Melania’s past social media activity and quickly gained traction, though it remains unclear whether the account is authentic.
Amanda Ungaro, Misryoum newsroom reported, also shares a teenage son with Zampolli and has previously made allegations linked to a contentious custody dispute—allegations Zampolli strongly denies. “My ex is a criminal and a psychopath. She was arrested. She was illegal,” he said.
Zampolli rejected the idea that his ex’s claims have anything to do with Melania’s recent public statement. He called the suggestion “far-fetched,” and said he was struck by what he described as her attempt to seek fame by targeting the “marvelous first lady of the United States of America.” His comments came with an incredulous edge—he even said he doesn’t think the first lady ever spoke to Ungaro in “maybe 10 years, maximum 13 years.” “Mind-boggling,” Zampolli said, adding, “She is the first lady of the United States. Do you think she cares about my ex?”
In Misryoum newsroom reporting, it’s not clear what specific evidence the online posts will present, or how the authenticity question will be answered. For now, Zampolli’s position is that the Epstein conversation has gone on long enough—and he’s not interested in treating it like a new story.