The Mutually Beneficial Ties Between Jeffrey Epstein and Thorbjorn Jagland
NYT Homepage
by Lynsey Chutel and Henrik Pryser LibellFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The recent release of new emails has revealed a close and mutually beneficial relationship between Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier, and Thorbjorn Jagland, the former prime minister of Norway who led the Nobel Committee. The correspondence highlights how their friendship was both transactional and enduring, continuing even after Epstein became a convicted sex offender and Jagland positioned himself as a champion of gender rights. This scandal has shocked Norway, a country known for the integrity of its officials, and could result in significant consequences for Jagland, who now faces charges of "gross corruption." If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison under Norwegian law.
The relationship between Epstein and Jagland was built on their respective influence and resources. Epstein, known for his wealth and connections to powerful figures, owned luxurious properties including apartments in New York and Paris, as well as a private Caribbean island. He used his Rolodex of politicians and investors to amass his fortune. On the other hand, Jagland, a center-left politician, held prominent positions such as leading Norway’s Nobel Committee, governing the country, and later heading the Council of Europe, which gave him access to world leaders
Verticals
newsgeneral
Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/13/2026