In a notable debate in 2021, Red Party leader Moxnes expressed his criticism of Terje Rød-Larsen and Mona Juul's roles in what he termed elite diplomacy, a move that provoked a significant backlash from established political leaders, especially from then Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Søreide. Moxnes' comments aimed at underscoring a perceived disconnect between elite political negotiations and the realities faced by ordinary citizens. Søreide's response indicated her frustration with Moxnes' criticisms, emphasizing the importance of a more constructive and respectful discourse in political debates.

Fast-forward to the present, the significance of Moxnes’ statements from 2021 is resurfacing as both Juul and Rød-Larsen have now been indicted by Økokrim, Norway’s national authority for investigation and prosecution of economic and environmental crime. This legal action sheds light on the previous concerns raised about the practices in elite diplomacy that Moxnes criticized. It raises questions about accountability among top diplomats and the implications of their actions on public trust in government institutions.

This situation not only brings past controversies back into the limelight but also reignites discussions on the role of political ethics in diplomacy. The reactions from political parties such as H (Høyre) and Ap (Arbeiderpartiet) underline the divisions within Norwegian politics regarding elite diplomacy and how it is perceived by various actors in society. As developments unfold, it will be crucial to observe how these indictments impact the broader political landscape and public perception of diplomatic practices in Norway.