Norwegian ambassador resigns as Epstein links spark political scandal

Norway is facing a widening political and diplomatic scandal after a senior envoy’s resignation and multiple high-profile figures were implicated in the latest batch of files from the estate of the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein . The revelations have triggered investigations , public apologies, and political fallout across the country.

Mona Juul , a veteran diplomat and former key figure in negotiating the Oslo Accords , resigned as Norway’s ambassador to Jordan and Iraq after reports linked her to Epstein through personal contact and financial ties . Norwegian media reported that Epstein’s 2019 will left $10 million to Juul’s two children with her husband, diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen . Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide described her contact with Epstein as a “serious lapse in judgment” that undermined the trust essential for her role. Juul had been suspended earlier as the ministry continued an internal investigation into her interactions with Epstein, though she maintains the contacts were infrequent, private, and tied to her husband’s relationship rather than official duties.

The files have also cast an unflattering spotlight on other prominent Norwegians. Crown Princess Mette-Marit maintained personal contact with Epstein over several years. She issued a public apology, saying she “deeply regrets” her association and acknowledged showing “poor judgment” . The disclosures have sparked debate about her future public role and drawn criticism from political leaders. Former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland , who also once headed the Nobel Committee, is under formal investigation by Norway’s economic crimes unit on suspicion of aggravated corruption tied to his links with Epstein. Jagland has said he will cooperate with investigators. Terje Rød-Larsen, Juul’s husband and former head of the International Peace Institute, is also enmeshed in the scandal; the Foreign Ministry has launched a review of IPI’s past funding and contacts. He has previously apologized for his relationship with Epstein.

Norwegian authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the revelations. Eide said Juul’s resignation was “correct and necessary,” highlighting the need for a transparent review of officials’ conduct. The scandal has prompted broader public discussion about political ethics and accountability, particularly as it involves figures across diplomatic, political, and royal circles. Investigations are continuing, and the ministry said Juul will remain in discussions to clarify her involvement.

The case underscores the lasting impact of Epstein’s network on global figures and the scrutiny faced by those associated with him, even years after his death in 2019.