The key facts

  • Trump confirmed he is considering the resignation of US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle: 'We're looking into it, we're not satisfied'
  • Wall Street Journal, citing Eric Dieters, reports threats against a Greek official, gifts, and an offer of influence in exchange for paying off a bill
  • Guilfoyle rejects the accusations and claims Dieters owes her about $150,000; a decision, according to media reports, will be made within a week

Trump Confirms Considering Resignation

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that he is considering the possible resignation of US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, whose position has been undermined by a series of publications. 'We're looking into it. We're not satisfied,' Trump told reporters at the White House, answering questions about her continued tenure. According to US media, a decision on the ambassador's fate is expected soon.

Allegations Based on Wall Street Journal Publications

In recent days, the Wall Street Journal has published a series of articles based, in particular, on the words of former Trump political donor Eric Dieters. The outlet describes that Guilfoyle allegedly threatened an official of the host country, accepted improper gifts and services, and also offered to use her access to the Washington administration in exchange for paying off a large credit card bill.

Reaction of the White House and State Department

According to a senior US official quoted on Sunday, Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are 'extremely angry' about the ambassador's alleged conduct and will likely decide on next steps within a week — after Monday's day off, Columbus Day.

Guilfoyle's Response

Guilfoyle, through her lawyers, categorically rejected Dieters' accusations. She stated that he owes her about $150,000 (about €134,000) for speaking engagements and consulting services, and emphasized that earlier, during her time at Fox News, she declined his offer of $1 million (about €893,000) to promote his personal lawsuit. Regarding gifts and private jet flights, her team stated that the ambassador went through the appropriate request and approval procedures at the State Department, and rejected any violations of ethical norms.

Context

Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former prosecutor and Fox News host, was for several years considered the fiancée of the president's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., although the marriage did not take place. She became one of the prominent figures of the MAGA ('Make America Great Again') movement, which adds extra sensitivity to the scandal.