Norway’s Prime Minister Backs Crown Princess Over Epstein Links
Princess Mette-Marit Admits Poor Judgement
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said he agrees with Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s acknowledgment of “poor judgement” following revelations of her extensive contacts with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The princess appears hundreds of times in newly released files from the US Department of Justice covering the period 2011 to 2014.
In a statement on Saturday, she admitted: “I showed poor judgement and regret having any contact with Epstein at all. It is simply embarrassing.” She also expressed sympathy and solidarity with Epstein’s victims.
Royal Family Embroiled Amid Son’s Trial
The controversy arises just before her son’s seven-week trial in Oslo, where he faces 38 charges including rape and assault.
Princess Mette-Marit married Crown Prince Haakon as a commoner, and she is expected to become queen when he ascends to the throne.
Prime Minister Criticizes Poor Judgement
While Støre did not elaborate further, his agreement with the princess’s statement is seen as an implicit criticism, which is unusual in Norway.
He also said he believes former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland exercised “poor judgement” after he planned a family visit to Epstein’s private island, though he later cancelled. Jagland was expected to comment on the matter on Monday.
Emails and Visits Highlight Ties
The DOJ files indicate the correspondence between the princess and Epstein began in autumn 2011.
Norwegian commentators expressed shock at the warm tone of the emails. In one from October 23, 2011, the princess wrote: “Googled u after last email. Agree didn’t look too good,” suggesting she was aware of Epstein’s 2008 jail term at the time.
It was also revealed that the princess spent four days at Epstein’s Palm Beach home in January 2013 while he was away. Another email indicated discussions about her son’s bedroom wallpaper, involving an inappropriate suggestion from Epstein.
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