ATHENS — Growing scrutiny surrounds U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle following recent allegations linked to her conduct and professional dealings. The accusations, which include claims by a Republican donor that Ms. Guilfoyle solicited payment of her American Express bill in exchange for access to senior officials during the Trump administration, have sparked frustration among some Greeks and renewed debate over the nature of American diplomatic appointments.
Ms. Guilfoyle, appointed in November during President Donald Trump’s second term, has gained a high-profile reputation in Greece, frequently attending high-society events and securing media attention. Her tenure has been marked by efforts to promote U.S. business interests, particularly in the energy sector. Last month, reports surfaced about potential conflicts of interest in her involvement in Greek energy deals. More recently, Eric Deters, a Republican donor, alleged that Ms. Guilfoyle suggested he wire $100,000 to pay off her credit card prior to her Senate confirmation hearing — a request he ultimately declined. These interactions were confirmed by news outlets, while Ms. Guilfoyle’s legal representative declined to comment.
Reactions within Greece have been mixed but often underscored a sense of resignation. “Greece is not a major power,” said Petros Malliaros, a freelance lighting technician. “We have to get along with the U.S. and whatever representatives it chooses to send us.” Others viewed the allegations as reflective of broader diplomatic dynamics between smaller countries and global powers. Anna Markaki, a school teacher, expressed little surprise, while some called into question the decision to appoint Ms. Guilfoyle at all. Anta Rapaki, a former healthcare worker, described the posting as a political favor and suggested that Greece’s status as a “faithful ally” was being underestimated by the Trump administration.
The ambassador’s reported remark at a private dinner in Athens, implying that the United States could replace the Greek government, also raised alarm among some citizens. The Greek government has denied the accuracy of this claim, with Energy Minister George Gerapetritis, who attended the event, rejecting the report. Government officials reiterated that the Greece-U.S. partnership is based on mutual respect and dismissed calls to summon Ms. Guilfoyle to Parliament, stating that it would risk unnecessary diplomatic tensions.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visiting Athens recently, declined to comment on the allegations but described Ms. Guilfoyle as an “incredibly effective advocate for the President’s agenda” and credited her with advancing American energy interests in Greece and southeastern Europe. President Trump said he was only vaguely aware of the accusations and characterized her as “very nice.”
Political response in Greece has been divided. Left-leaning parties have urged the government to seek accountability, warning that close ties with the United States under the Trump administration could come with hidden costs. The ruling New Democracy party, however, has maintained its commitment to fostering cooperation with Washington, emphasizing the pragmatic importance of the bilateral relationship.
Ms. Guilfoyle is among several Trump-era diplomatic appointees in Europe who have attracted criticism over their conduct and professionalism. Incidents involving ambassadors to Belgium and France have similarly drawn censure and diplomatic rebukes, highlighting ongoing concerns about political appointments lacking extensive diplomatic experience.