Epstein Files Explained: Why Officials Are Resigning Worldwide and How Criminal Investigations Are Closing In
The release of over three million documents from the U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein on January 30, 2026, has unleashed a wave of accountability across the globe. Mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act—passed by Congress in November 2025 and signed into law by President Donald Trump—these files include emails, videos, images, and investigative records detailing Epstein’s network of influence among the powerful. What was once dismissed as conspiracy has now become a catalyst for resignations, apologies, and criminal probes, exposing how Epstein’s ties extended far beyond U.S. borders into Europe and beyond.
The Catalyst: A Massive Document Dump
Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died in custody in 2019, built a web of connections with billionaires, politicians, and elites. The newly released files—totaling more than 3 million pages, 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images—reveal communications post-dating his 2008 conviction, including discussions of women, financial dealings, and personal favors. Despite initial delays and heavy redactions criticized by lawmakers like Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, the full release has forced many to confront their associations. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche called the material “disturbing” but maintained no new U.S. investigations were needed, though advocates argue millions more pages may still be withheld.
Resignations in the U.S.: Law Firms and Beyond
In New York, Brad Karp, chairman of the elite law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, stepped down on February 4, 2026, after emails surfaced showing communications with Epstein as late as 2019. Karp cited media distraction but will remain at the firm in a lesser role. This resignation highlights how even tangential links can tarnish reputations in high-stakes industries.
Europe’s Political Reckoning
United Kingdom: Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a rare public apology on February 5, 2026, to Epstein’s victims for appointing Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador in 2025. Mandelson, fired in September 2025, is now under criminal investigation by British police for alleged misconduct, including sharing market-sensitive information with Epstein during the 2008 financial crisis. Starmer lamented believing Mandelson’s denials, calling it a failure of those in power.
Norway: Former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland, who also led the Nobel Committee and the Council of Europe, faces an investigation for “aggravated corruption.” Authorities are seeking to revoke his diplomatic immunity. Additionally, diplomat Mona Juul—famed for the Oslo Accords—has been suspended as ambassador amid probes into her Epstein connections, including a $10 million bequest to her children in his will. World Economic Forum President Børge Brende, a former Norwegian foreign minister, initiated an independent review after revelations of business dinners and emails with Epstein.
France: Former Culture Minister Jack Lang was summoned to the foreign ministry on February 6, 2026, to explain his Epstein ties, with mounting calls for his resignation as head of the Arab World Institute. His daughter, Caroline Lang, has already resigned from leading a film producers’ union.
Slovakia: National Security Adviser Miroslav Lajčák resigned on January 31, 2026, following disclosures of text exchanges with Epstein discussing women. He denied wrongdoing but cited the revelations as untenable.
Sweden: Joanna Rubinstein stepped down as chair of Sweden for UNHCR after files confirmed her visit to Epstein’s private island.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide emphasized the need for transparency, a sentiment echoed across affected nations. On X (formerly Twitter), users expressed shock and called for more accountability, with posts highlighting the “insanity” of the files and demanding arrests.
How Investigations Are Closing In
These resignations are just the beginning. Criminal probes are intensifying:
- In the UK, Mandelson’s case could lead to charges for misconduct in public office.
- Norway’s corruption investigation into Jagland may expand if immunity is lifted.
- Broader reviews, like the WEF’s, could uncover financial improprieties.
- Advocates, including Epstein survivors, criticize the DOJ for redacting enablers’ details while exposing victims’ information, fueling calls for further releases.
The files name prominent figures like Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Richard Branson, and even Trump (from 1990s flights), but focus on post-conviction interactions. No new U.S. charges have been filed, but international pressure is mounting.
Why Now? The Broader Implications
The Transparency Act aimed to close the chapter on Epstein, but it has reopened wounds. Delays in release—criticized as violations of the law—stemmed from vetting sensitive material. Globally, this reckoning underscores how power shielded exploitation. As Norwegian officials noted, “the facts must come to light.” With ongoing probes, more heads may roll, potentially reshaping political landscapes.
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