Kimberly Guilfoyle Resigns as U.S. Ambassador Amid Controversy

The U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, resigned after facing allegations of improper conduct. The White House requested her resignation, which she announced two hours later, ending speculation about her future.

Allegations against Guilfoyle include threatening a host country official, accepting improper gifts, and offering to use her influence in exchange for payments. In her resignation post, she denied these accusations, asserting her commitment to defending her name.

White House and Administration’s Response

President Donald Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the allegations against Guilfoyle, remarking that she would not continue her role. White House press secretary Katie Zacharia acknowledged Guilfoyle’s service while expressing best wishes for her future.

Reports indicated Trump’s unhappiness with Guilfoyle’s alleged conduct, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially defended her. However, when further allegations surfaced, Rubio refrained from commenting further.

Reports and Investigations

The Wall Street Journal detailed several allegations against Guilfoyle. These include claims of threats, improper acceptance of gifts, and attempts to leverage her position for financial gain. Lawyers for Guilfoyle have denied any wrongdoing, stating the payments were for previously agreed services.

A second U.S. official mentioned an ongoing State Department inspector looking into the allegations. However, whether a formal investigation has begun remains unclear.

Greek and Democratic Reactions

Within Greece, opposition parties have urged the Foreign Ministry to seek answers from Guilfoyle. Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis stated that an official summons was unnecessary, while former deputy foreign minister Sia Anagnostopoulou emphasized national dignity concerns.

Democratic leaders have called for an investigation. Reports have detailed further questionable behavior, including attempts to use her position to influence decisions and conduct private diplomatic meetings.

Guilfoyle’s Background

Guilfoyle, former Fox News host and California prosecutor, had strong associations with energy sector executives. These close ties contributed to her troubles as ambassador. Her previous marital ties to Democrat Gavin Newsom and engagement to Donald Trump Jr. have been part of her public narrative.