Kimberly Guilfoyle knew her removal as US ambassador to Greece was imminent when she greeted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his recent visit to Athens, according to Daily Mail journalist Elina Shirazi.
Speaking to Greek public broadcaster ERT, Shirazi said the decision to remove Guilfoyle was made within two days following a series of allegations and media reports that had generated concern in Washington.
"It was a snowstorm that became an avalanche," Shirazi said, describing the rapid escalation of events.
"She knew she would be dismissed"
According to Shirazi, Guilfoyle projected confidence during Rubio's visit despite being aware of developments behind the scenes.
"She hugged him, she looked strong and confident, but people behind the scenes told me she knew she was going to be dismissed," Shirazi said.
The journalist said the public image presented during the visit differed from discussions already taking place within the administration.
Question triggered White House announcement
Shirazi said she had gathered extensive information and complaints from sources in both Greece and the United States, including individuals within diplomatic circles.
She said her intention during a White House briefing was to ask whether the administration planned to take action in response to the allegations.
Instead, White House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia announced that Guilfoyle had been asked to resign.
"I wanted to ask what steps would be taken and whether any action was being considered. I wasn't expecting such a bombshell answer," Shirazi said.
She added that she later put the same question to President Donald Trump before his departure for Alaska, claiming he sought to downplay the issue and distance himself from Guilfoyle.
Allegations and denials
Guilfoyle's departure followed a series of reports, including articles published by the Wall Street Journal, which raised questions about her conduct, relationships and activities during her tenure in Athens.
The reports included allegations concerning:
- Relationships with Greek business figures.
- Use of private aircraft.
- Participation in events allegedly funded by business interests.
- The involvement of an associate who reportedly acted as a lobbyist for an energy-related company.
One report also referenced remarks allegedly made by Guilfoyle concerning US influence over foreign governments.
Guilfoyle and her lawyers have denied wrongdoing, maintaining that relevant activities had been disclosed to the State Department and complied with ethics rules.
Investigation continues
Despite her departure, scrutiny of the allegations continues.
According to reports, an investigation is under way within the US State Department, while senior Democratic lawmakers have called for a formal review of the matter.
Who takes over in Athens?
Until a new ambassador is appointed, Joshua Huck will serve as chargé d'affaires and head of the US diplomatic mission in Greece.
It remains unclear whether Trump will move quickly to nominate a successor or leave the embassy under interim leadership for an extended period.
Guilfoyle leaves Athens less than a year after taking up the role, with questions remaining over the allegations that led to her departure and the future direction of US diplomatic representation in Greece.
Source: ERT / Daily Mail / Protothema.gr
