British-American influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate have arrived in the United States after Romanian prosecutors lifted a two-year travel ban imposed on them amid ongoing human trafficking allegations. The brothers, who have consistently denied the charges, departed from Bucharest on a private jet early Thursday and landed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, later that day.
Romanian authorities have emphasized that the case against them remains active and that they are still under judicial control. This means they must regularly report to Romanian authorities and are expected to return to Romania at the end of March for legal proceedings.
The Tates’ departure has sparked controversy, with allegations of political influence coming into play. Some critics suspect that the Trump administration may have pressured Romania into allowing the brothers to travel freely. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has denied any involvement, stating, “I know nothing about that.”
Despite the legal restrictions, Andrew Tate expressed confidence upon arrival in the U.S., telling reporters, “We live in a democratic society where it’s innocent until proven guilty, and I think my brother and I are largely misunderstood.” Their lawyer, Joseph McBride, confirmed that they would return to Romania as required but noted that they feel more secure in the U.S., particularly with Trump as president.
The legal troubles surrounding the brothers are extensive. In Romania, they face charges of human trafficking and forming an organized crime group for sexual exploitation. Andrew Tate is also accused of rape. Additionally, they are embroiled in legal battles in both the U.K. and the U.S. In the U.K., authorities are pursuing their extradition over separate allegations of rape, human trafficking, and tax evasion. Meanwhile, in the U.S., they face a civil lawsuit from a woman who alleges they coerced her into sex work and later defamed her for testifying against them in Romania.
The Romanian government is under scrutiny for lifting the Tates’ travel restrictions, with presidential candidate Elena Lasconi condemning the decision and demanding accountability from the country’s organized crime unit, DIICOT. In response, Romanian prosecutors have stated that any violation of the brothers’ judicial conditions could result in stricter measures, including potential re-arrest.
As the legal battles continue across multiple countries, questions remain about the extent of political influence in their case. With mounting public and legal scrutiny, their ability to freely travel may be short-lived as the court proceedings unfold in the coming months.
