Norwegian authorities have launched a major investigation into two prominent diplomats over allegations of gross corruption and their connections to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The case has sent shockwaves through Norway's political and diplomatic circles.
High-Profile Targets of the Investigation
The financial crimes squad Økokrim is investigating Mona Juul, who recently resigned as Norway's ambassador to Jordan and Iraq, on suspicion of gross corruption during her tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Simultaneously, her husband Terje Rød-Larsen, a former diplomat and ex-president of the International Peace Institute, faces investigation for alleged complicity in the same corruption charges.
Epstein Connections Under Scrutiny
The investigation extends beyond corruption allegations to examine the couple's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex crimes against minors. Documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice reveal that Epstein bequeathed $10 million to Juul and Rød-Larsen's children and initially appointed Rød-Larsen as executor of his will in 2017, though this was later revoked.
Further evidence from the Epstein files indicates the family visited Epstein's private island in 2011, with Rød-Larsen subsequently thanking Epstein for the experience in an email, describing the island as "totally unique" and noting "we all loved it!" The email concluded with "Mona sends a kiss."
Official Statements and Legal Responses
Pål Lønseth, head of Økokrim, confirmed the investigation, stating: "We have opened an investigation to clarify whether criminal acts have occurred. We are facing a comprehensive and, by all accounts, long-term investigation." He added that authorities would examine whether Juul received improper benefits connected to her official position.
Both diplomats have legal representation vigorously defending their positions. Thomas Skjelbred, Juul's lawyer, acknowledged the "serious charge" against his client but expressed confidence that a thorough investigation would clarify the circumstances. He confirmed Juul would attend questioning with Økokrim this week and cooperate fully with both the financial crimes squad and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
John Christian Elden, representing Rød-Larsen, noted the charges center on an apartment transfer in 2018 and a possible trip in 2011. He stated his client remains "fully available to the investigators and is cooperating to the fullest extent practically possible" while expressing confidence the investigation would ultimately find no basis for criminal liability.
Broader Context and Resignation
The revelations have created significant controversy in Norway, particularly because of Epstein's previously disclosed relationship with Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who has expressed "deep regret" and acknowledged "poor judgment" regarding her association with the financier. The case represents the latest in a series of Norwegian figures connected to the Epstein files, following an investigation into former Labour Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide announced Juul's resignation, stating her contact with Epstein had "revealed a serious lapse in judgment" and made it "difficult to restore the trust that the role requires." The couple, who played significant roles in facilitating the 1993-1995 Oslo Accords, now face intense scrutiny over their professional conduct and personal associations.
Rød-Larsen has apologized multiple times for his relationship with Epstein and resigned as CEO of the International Peace Institute in 2020. Both individuals maintain their innocence and await the outcome of what promises to be a lengthy and complex investigation into their activities and connections.
