The future of Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece is reportedly under scrutiny, with President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio said to be considering her removal following a series of reports raising questions about her conduct and actions in office.
According to an exclusive report by the Associated Press, citing a senior US official, Trump and Rubio are "extremely angry" about the allegations that have emerged concerning Guilfoyle. A decision on her future is expected later this week, following Monday's public holiday in the United States.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Rubio was particularly displeased given that he had visited Athens on an official trip only last week.
The AP noted that Guilfoyle greeted Rubio with a warm embrace upon his arrival and accompanied him at most public appearances during the visit, even as the allegations against her were already attracting attention in Washington.
Allegations at the centre of the controversy
The controversy stems from a series of reports in The Wall Street Journal, which describe alleged actions by the ambassador that could amount to breaches of ethics rules or potentially US law.
Among the allegations are claims that she threatened an official in the host country, accepted inappropriate gifts and benefits, and attempted to use her influence within the Trump administration in exchange for the repayment of personal debt.
According to the newspaper, Guilfoyle allegedly asked a Trump supporter and donor to cover a $100,000 credit card debt, offering access to US government officials in return.
Other reports allege she promoted the interests of a specific Greek company active in the construction and energy sectors and raise questions about the involvement of business representatives in diplomatic meetings.
Guilfoyle has not commented in detail on the allegations, although her lawyer has denied any wrongdoing.
State Department review
According to a second US official cited by the Associated Press, the State Department's Office of Inspector General is examining the allegations that have surfaced publicly.
It remains unclear whether a formal investigation has been launched or whether officials are conducting a preliminary review.
The State Department has declined to comment on the possibility of an investigation, while Democratic lawmakers in Congress have already called for the allegations to be examined.
From public support to growing frustration
The issue is particularly notable given Rubio's previous public support for Guilfoyle.
During his recent visit to Athens, he spoke positively about her performance and described her as a strong representative of the United States in Greece.
However, following the emergence of additional allegations, he has avoided commenting on the substance of the reports, saying he could not discuss claims whose accuracy had not been verified.
According to the Associated Press, the accumulation of allegations appears to have increased dissatisfaction within the administration, leaving Guilfoyle's future at the US embassy in Athens under active consideration.
No decision on her possible removal has yet been announced.
