WASHINGTON — US Ambassador to Greece Kimberley Guilfoyle resigned on Tuesday, following a series of misconduct allegations, including claims that she offered a political donor access to senior administration officials in exchange for money.
The Trump administration said earlier Tuesday it had asked Guilfoyle to leave her post after she faced severe criticism over accusations that she engaged in improper and possibly illegal conduct before and during her tenure in Athens.
The announcement, after days of comments and speculation, came in response to a question to newly appointed White House press secretary Katie Zacharia at her first media briefing on Tuesday morning. Zacharia said Guilfoyle “has been a wonderful asset to the team, and we wish her well.”
In a statement following the announcement, Guilfoyle denied the allegations and insisted she’ll “vigorously defend” herself.
“These allegations are false, and I intend to vigorously defend my name, my reputation, and my integrity,” she said.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Guilfoyle asked a Trump donor to cover a $100,000 credit card bill shortly before her congressional confirmation hearing, promising him access to administration officials in return.
The newspaper also reported that she told guests at a reception that she could use US influence to undermine the Greek government, promoted the interests of a Greek construction and energy company and allowed one of its lobbyists to attend private diplomatic meetings.
Guilfoyle’s lawyers have denied any wrongdoing, saying the money she sought was payment for previous speaking engagements and public appearances that she had not received.
Trump had signalled on Monday that he was considering removing her from the post.
“Well, we’re looking at it,” he told reporters. “We’re not happy.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially defended Guilfoyle, calling her a “strong ambassador,” but later declined to comment on the allegations and criticised reporters for asking about them.
Guilfoyle is a former Fox News host and California prosecutor. She is the former wife of California Governor Gavin Newsom and was previously engaged to Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr.
Source: Saudi Gazette