A recent surge of revelations stemming from newly released Epstein files has ignited a tempestuous storm of outrage and indignation in Norway, prompting intense scrutiny on high-ranking officials believed to have had ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Among those scrutinized is former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland, who found himself at the center of a criminal investigation launched by Norwegian police for "gross corruption" linked to gifts, loans, and benefits he may have received from Epstein. In the released documents, there's an implication that Jagland had close associations with Epstein during his tenure as secretary-general of the Council of Europe and Nobel Committee chairman.
Moreover, Borge Brende, who headed Norway's foreign ministry between 2013 to 2017, has also come under fire after evidence emerged showing he had several business dinners with Epstein, and communicated via email and text messages. The Norwegian government has subsequently launched an independent review into the matter. Meanwhile, Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway is in hot water due to hundreds of private messages with Epstein revealing her alleged close relationship with him. In response to the scandal, she expressed deep sympathy for the victims but also admitted to regretting having any contact with Epstein.
The escalating fallout has led to demands from opposition parties and parliament for a more thorough probe into Norwegian politics and foreign affairs regarding these revelations.
Among those scrutinized is former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland, who found himself at the center of a criminal investigation launched by Norwegian police for "gross corruption" linked to gifts, loans, and benefits he may have received from Epstein. In the released documents, there's an implication that Jagland had close associations with Epstein during his tenure as secretary-general of the Council of Europe and Nobel Committee chairman.
Moreover, Borge Brende, who headed Norway's foreign ministry between 2013 to 2017, has also come under fire after evidence emerged showing he had several business dinners with Epstein, and communicated via email and text messages. The Norwegian government has subsequently launched an independent review into the matter. Meanwhile, Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway is in hot water due to hundreds of private messages with Epstein revealing her alleged close relationship with him. In response to the scandal, she expressed deep sympathy for the victims but also admitted to regretting having any contact with Epstein.
The escalating fallout has led to demands from opposition parties and parliament for a more thorough probe into Norwegian politics and foreign affairs regarding these revelations.