Before the announcement regarding the courtesy visit, the White House asked the United States ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, to resign amid allegations reported in the press concerning alleged favors and access offered in exchange for sums of money or other benefits. According to reports, the request came after the administration was reportedly dissatisfied with the information that had become public.
The controversy was fueled by articles in the American press, which described an alleged arrangement with a Republican donor, including a request for money to pay off a debt, in exchange for promises of access to officials in the Trump administration. Guilfoyle denied the allegations, and her lawyer challenged the authenticity of the messages cited in support of the claims.
At the same time, other tensions were also mentioned regarding the way the ambassador allegedly handled relationships and invitations, while the State Department was described as investigating possible violations of rules concerning gifts and favors. In this context, signs also emerged that the administration was considering replacing her.
