Norwegian police have initiated an investigation into a prominent diplomat and her husband concerning their ties to the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The inquiry delves into potential financial exchanges and interactions that have surfaced in publicly released documents.
Diplomat’s Resignation and Suspension
Mona Juul stepped down from her position as ambassador to Jordan and Iraq on Sunday. This resignation followed a period of suspension, prompted by reports in Norwegian media. These reports alleged that each of her children was to receive $5 million (£3.6 million) from a will purportedly drafted by Epstein shortly before his death.
Husband’s Interactions and Legal Responses
Furthermore, emails that emerged as part of the so-called Epstein files appear to indicate that Juul’s husband, Terje Rød-Larsen, shared a dinner with Epstein in Paris during June 2019. This meeting occurred mere weeks prior to Epstein’s apprehension in the United States on charges of sex trafficking.
Juul’s legal representative has stated that she “does not recognize the accusations made against her.” Similarly, Rød-Larsen’s lawyer expressed confidence that the investigation would establish “no basis for criminal liability.” It is important to note that mere appearance in these widely published files does not inherently signify wrongdoing.
Official Ministry Statement and Corruption Inquiry
Norway’s foreign ministry has characterized Juul’s contact with Epstein as a “serious lapse in judgment.” This assessment preceded the announcement on Monday by Økokrim, Norway’s economic crime unit, that an “aggravated corruption” inquiry had been launched.
“Økokrim will, among other things, investigate whether benefits were received in connection with her position,” a police statement detailed, specifically referencing Juul. As part of this investigation, a property located in Oslo has undergone a search.
Background in Peace Negotiations
Both Juul and Rød-Larsen were integral members of a small diplomatic contingent involved in negotiating the 1993-1995 Oslo Accords. At the time of their creation, these accords were widely regarded as a significant advancement in resolving the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
Norwegian media has extensively documented Rød-Larsen’s frequent communications with Epstein. Reports also indicate that arrangements were made for him and Juul to meet with Epstein on multiple occasions.
The Epstein Documents and Wider Scandal
The broader collection of Epstein documents, released by the U.S. Department of Justice last month, comprises millions of private emails, images, and FBI reports pertaining to the disgraced financier. Epstein died in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking charges.
Juul now stands as the most recent prominent public figure from the Nordic nation to become entangled in the expanding scandal associated with these files. Other notable individuals implicated include Crown Princess Mette-Marit, former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland, and Børge Brende, the chief executive of the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Implications for Other Public Figures
Crown Princess Mette-Marit offered a “profound apology” to the Norwegian public for her association with Epstein, following revelations that they had exchanged messages for a period of three years.
Thorbjørn Jagland, who also formerly chaired the Norwegian Nobel Committee, is currently under investigation for his alleged connections to Epstein. His legal counsel has assured full cooperation with the police probe.
The World Economic Forum initiated an independent review concerning Børge Brende, who previously served as Norway’s foreign minister. This review addresses his interactions with Epstein. Brende has confirmed dining with Epstein three times in 2018 and 2019, in addition to maintaining email and text communication. He has expressed his support for the WEF’s decision to conduct this review.