Karyna Shuliak: The Belarusian Woman at the Center of Jeffrey Epstein’s Final Days

Newly released documents related to the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein have brought Karyna Shuliak, a 36-year-old Belarusian national, into sharp focus. Named as a principal beneficiary in Epstein’s 1953 Trust, Shuliak was reportedly the last person to speak with Epstein before his death in 2019, and her relationship with the convicted sex offender was complex and financially significant.

A Relationship Spanning Over a Decade

Shuliak met Epstein in the United States in 2009, and over the following decade, she received substantial financial support from him. This support encompassed funding for her education, dental licensing, and family expenses, as documented in email exchanges and wire transfers . Epstein’s connection to Belarus through Shuliak is detailed in the released files, including visits from her parents to the U.S.

Beneficiary of Epstein’s Estate

Epstein’s will, signed just two days before his death on August 8, 2019, designated Shuliak as the largest beneficiary of his estate. This includes a $50 million inheritance, ownership of the properties on Little and Great Saint James islands, the Zorro ranch in New Mexico, a New York townhouse, and an apartment in Paris .

Securing U.S. Citizenship

The released files also reveal Epstein’s efforts to facilitate Shuliak’s U.S. Citizenship. Emails indicate his involvement in managing her immigration status through student visas, and assistance with legal processes . He actively worked to arrange interviews with immigration authorities and secure legal assistance for her.

A Complicated Relationship

The correspondence between Epstein and Shuliak reveals a relationship marked by both affection and conflict. Emails show expressions of love, but also arguments over everyday issues, jealousy, and control. Epstein expressed frustration with Shuliak’s focus on her dental studies, while simultaneously funding her education .

A “Secret” Wedding

Evidence suggests that Shuliak married an American citizen in October 2013. The marriage appears to have been strategically arranged to facilitate her obtaining a “green card,” with emails frequently mentioning the term and focusing on practical arrangements rather than romantic sentiment . The couple divorced in 2018, with no shared assets or financial claims.

Surveillance Concerns

Adding another layer of complexity, emails indicate that Epstein sought to install surveillance cameras in Shuliak’s apartment just months before his death. He reportedly received a feed from these cameras on his phone, raising questions about the nature of his control and monitoring of her .

The Final Phone Call

Shuliak was the last person to speak with Epstein by phone before his suicide in August 2019 . Her current whereabouts are unknown, and attempts to contact her have been unsuccessful.

Key Takeaways

• Karyna Shuliak was a long-term girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein and a major beneficiary of his estate.
• Epstein provided significant financial support for Shuliak’s education, family, and immigration to the United States.
• Their relationship was complex, marked by both affection and conflict.
• Epstein’s efforts to secure Shuliak’s U.S. Citizenship involved navigating various legal avenues.
• Concerns have been raised regarding Epstein’s surveillance of Shuliak.