Epstein files spark wave of probes: Norway, Poland, Latvia and France launch investigations
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- The recently released Jeffrey Epstein files have triggered investigations in multiple European countries.
A growing number of countries have launched official investigations linked to the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files, the trove of internal documents published by the US Department of Justice that reveal the late financier’s extensive global network and contacts.
The disclosures have not only prompted legal action in several European nations but also forced resignations and wider scrutiny of public figures.
Norway opens corruption probe
Norwegian authorities have opened a criminal investigation into former prime minister Thorbjørn Jagland on suspicion of aggravated corruption connected to ties with Epstein, according to reports. The country’s economic crimes unit is also asking to strip Jagland of diplomatic immunity as part of the inquiry, which stems from emails and contacts revealed in the files.
Other Norwegian officials and diplomats, including former ambassador Mona Juul, have faced administrative action amid broader scrutiny of elite links to Epstein.
Poland investigates potential Russian, trafficking links
Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that Warsaw will examine possible links between Epstein and Russian intelligence services, forming a specialized investigative team to scrutinize the files for implications related to national security and possible exploitation of Polish nationals.
Baltic states launch trafficking inquiries
The release of the Epstein documents has also led to human trafficking investigations in Latvia and Lithuania. Latvian prosecutors, joined by the country’s Organised Crime Bureau, are probing the recruitment of Latvian nationals for potential sexual exploitation. Lithuanian officials similarly launched an inquiry after references to Lithuanian models and arts figures appeared in the files.
France probes former culture minister
In France, judicial authorities have opened an investigation into former culture minister Jack Lang and his daughter over suspected financial improprieties linked to Epstein, prompting Lang’s resignation from his role as head of the Arab World Institute. The probe focuses on alleged laundering of proceeds through tax‑related channels and examines extensive correspondence outlined in the files.
Files also shake broader European elite
Beyond formal investigations, other European figures named in the documents are facing fallout. In the United Kingdom, scrutiny has intensified around high‑profile individuals mentioned in the files, while elsewhere in Europe diplomats and officials have resigned or faced public backlash over documented interactions with Epstein.
Impact contrasted with the US
While Europe sees active legal and political repercussions, responses in the United States have so far been more muted despite the files’ origins in US court disclosures. Several American figures mentioned in the documents have faced professional setbacks, but few have been subject to formal investigations comparable to those unfolding abroad.
The unfolding international inquiries underscore the extensive reach of the Epstein files and the political and legal consequences facing elite figures across multiple countries as authorities work to assess potential criminal links exposed by the disclosures.
