Kimberly Guilfoyle has stepped down as the U.S. ambassador to Greece after the White House requested her resignation amid allegations of improper conduct. The announcement came on Tuesday following weeks of reports that Guilfoyle sought financial assistance from a political donor in exchange for access to administration officials and was involved in questionable activities during her tenure in Athens.
Guilfoyle, a former Fox News personality and once fiancé to Donald Trump Jr., denied all allegations and vowed to vigorously defend her reputation. In a statement posted on social media, she described her ambassadorial role as the “honor of a lifetime” and reaffirmed her commitment to President Donald Trump, the America First movement, and the United States.
The controversy primarily revolves around accusations that Guilfoyle pressured Eric Deters, a Republican donor and former congressional candidate, to pay off a $100,000 American Express credit card bill days before her Senate confirmation hearing in July 2025. According to messages obtained by media outlets, Guilfoyle assured Deters that the payment would not leave a paper trail and promised to assist him with tax and legal issues by leveraging her connections within the Justice Department and the Internal Revenue Service. Deters has maintained that the request constituted a quid pro quo, although Guilfoyle's legal team has asserted that the bill related to fees from speaking engagements predating her diplomatic appointment.
Additional reports highlighted her close relationship with Greek business figures, particularly her promotion of the construction and energy firm Aktor Group during official meetings, often accompanied by the company’s lobbyist Christos Marafatsos. Some U.S. officials allegedly mistook Marafatsos for a member of her embassy staff due to his frequent presence. Guilfoyle also reportedly accepted luxury travel on private jets paid for by Greek magnates, including the company’s CEO and shipping tycoon Nikolas Tsakos.
Her arrival in Athens in late 2025 was characterized by a lavish welcome hosted by the U.S. embassy, attended by high-profile Greek political and business leaders. However, some diplomatic insiders privately criticized her disregard for protocol, such as arriving on a private jet before presenting her credentials to Greek authorities and engaging in unofficial dealings. There were also reports of tensions within the embassy staff over her demands, including requests for expensive amenities at the ambassador’s residence.
President Trump, who has publicly expressed fondness for Guilfoyle in the past, distanced himself following the revelations, stating he had not spoken to her since the allegations surfaced and that he “didn’t like what [he] read.” While Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially defended her and criticized media coverage as speculative, he reportedly became frustrated by the unfolding situation. The State Department’s Office of Inspector General has reportedly initiated an investigation into her conduct.
Guilfoyle’s nomination was initially contentious, stalled for months in the Senate before being confirmed via a narrow Republican majority in September 2025. Her tenure marked the first time a woman served as U.S. ambassador to Greece. Despite her social prominence in Athens and efforts to advance U.S. energy interests in southeastern Europe, the growing scrutiny and public disclosure of her dealings culminated in her departure.
The White House expressed appreciation for Guilfoyle’s contributions while wishing her well in future endeavors. The ambassador’s resignation brings an end to her controversial tenure marked by both political prominence and significant allegations of misconduct.