Norway Ex-Prime Minister Attempted Suicide After Epstein Files Link Emerges Amid Corruption Probe

Former Norwegian prime minister Thorbjørn Jagland has been hospitalised following an alleged suicide attempt, amid charges of gross corruption linked to his ties with the late US financier Jeffrey Epstein. The 75-year-old, who served as Norway's leader from 1996 to 1997, was taken to hospital last week, according to local media reports.

This comes just days after he was formally charged on 12 February. Police had raided several of his properties earlier this month as part of the investigation sparked by the latest Epstein files release. Jagland, also a former secretary-general of the Council of Europe and chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, is said to be in critical condition.

According to Norwegian outlet iNyheter, an understanding was reached on 17 February between Jagland's lawyer, Anders Brosveet, and representatives of the Norwegian Editors' Association, alongside selected editors, that the incident would not be covered.

The Epstein Files Connection

The charges stem from recently released documents by the US Justice Department, detailing Jagland's interactions with Epstein after the financier's 2008 conviction for child sex offences. Emails show plans for Jagland to visit Epstein's residences in Paris, New York, and Palm Beach, including both solo trips and family visits.

According to investigators from Økokrim, Norway's economic crime unit, the probe focuses on whether Jagland received gifts, travel, and loans in connection with his official positions. The files reveal that Epstein covered expenses for Jagland and his family between 2011 and 2018.

Arrangements in 2014 included Jagland, his wife, two children, and his son's girlfriend staying at Epstein's Palm Beach home and Caribbean island. Jagland's diplomatic immunity was waived on 11 February to allow the proceedings. Norwegian broadcaster NRK reported that police suspicions arose from the Epstein files, leading to raids on Jagland's apartments in Oslo and Risør.

Legal Proceedings and Denials

Jagland has denied any criminal wrongdoing. 'He denies criminal liability and is willing to cooperate,' his lawyer said in a statement. Økokrim announced the investigation on 5 February, citing suspicions of aggravated corruption. The charge of gross corruption carries potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison under Norwegian law.

Jagland's legal team argues that the trips were not improper, given his international roles. The case is part of a broader scrutiny of Norwegian elites linked to Epstein. Other figures, including former NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg and diplomats Mona Juul and Terje Rød-Larsen, have also faced questions.

Broader Implications for Norwegian Politics

This scandal underscores the far-reaching impact of the Epstein files, even years after his 2019 death. In Norway, it has prompted calls for greater accountability among public officials. The parliament has appointed an external inquiry into the foreign ministry's links to Epstein, while the World Economic Forum has launched an independent investigation of its Norwegian CEO, Børge Brende.

Public reaction has been marked by concern, with it serving as a reminder that no one is above the law. Jagland remains under medical care while the corruption probe continues. Authorities have not released further details on his condition or the investigation's timeline.

The case highlights ongoing global repercussions from Epstein's network. Norway's justice system will be under watch as it handles one of the country's most high-profile corruption cases in recent memory.