Washington: Kimberly Guilfoyle, US Ambassador to Greece, stepped down from her diplomatic post on Tuesday following growing allegations of improper behaviour. Despite her departure, she vowed to actively contest the claims made against her.

The White House revealed earlier in the day that it had requested Guilfoyle’s resignation after days of intense scrutiny concerning accusations of inappropriate and potentially unlawful actions before and during her posting in Athens.

White House demands departure

The announcement came during the maiden press conference of newly appointed White House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia. Addressing queries from reporters, Zacharia stated that Guilfoyle “has been a wonderful asset to the team, and we wish her well”.

Her resignation follows signal developments over the weekend when administrative sources hinted at her impending departure, alongside visible frustration expressed by President Trump regarding her reported conduct.

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday when asked if he intended to dismiss Guilfoyle, President Trump said, “Well, we’re looking at it. We’re not happy.”

Reports indicated that President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were reportedly infuriated by the allegations and were preparing to decide on Guilfoyle's future within the week.

Allegations of Misconduct and Defense

Media reports detailing dubious conduct by Guilfoyle began emerging late last month. Concerns included allegedly issuing threats to a host-nation official, accepting unauthorised gifts and services, and offering to trade political leverage within the Republican administration in exchange for covering a substantial personal credit card debt.

Guilfoyle firmly rejected the allegations in a statement posted on social media platform X:
 

“These allegations are false, and I intend to vigorously defend my name, my reputation, and my integrity.”

“I have dedicated my professional life to fighting for justice, standing up for what is right, and defending the values that make America exceptional,” Guilfoyle added. “I will not allow false accusations to define my decades of public service.”

Guilfoyle’s legal counsel, David Schwartz and Jesse Binnall, released a statement defending her actions. They argued that the funds requested from a Trump donor were legitimate payments for public speaking engagements that occurred prior to her ambassadorial appointment. Regarding her use of private aircraft, her attorneys asserted that she “sought, obtained and followed State Department guidance and followed the Department’s travel regulations” before every flight.

Scrutiny and internal investigations

Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially defended Guilfoyle, remarking during a trip to Athens, “Our ambassador has been a strong ambassador here.” However, as further allegations surfaced, Rubio expressed frustration with media inquiries.

Addressing journalists before departing Athens on Thursday, Rubio said: “You guys walk around thinking that because some source told you something and you reported it, it’s the gospel. It’s not the gospel. It’s not the gospel for me. That’s not the way we do things.”

Sources confirm that the State Department’s inspector general has begun reviewing the accusations. Meanwhile, prominent lawmakers on Capitol Hill—including Representative Gregory Meeks, Senator Jeanne Shaheen, and Representative Robert Garcia—have demanded formal investigations into her conduct.

Prior to her diplomatic role, Guilfoyle worked as a California prosecutor and Fox News host. She was formerly married to California Governor Gavin Newsom and was previously engaged to Donald Trump Jr.

 

AP