Kimberly Guilfoyle Departs Athens Residence Amid White House Pressure
The former US ambassador to Greece is expected to return to Florida after being asked to resign, vacating the diplomatic estate known as Jefferson House.
Kimberly Guilfoyle has agreed to resign as the U.S. ambassador to Greece, a move that will require her to vacate Jefferson House, the official government-owned estate provided with the position. The White House formally requested her resignation, with President Donald Trump confirming the decision to reporters.
White House press secretary Katie Zacharia announced, "We have asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign." President Trump added, "She will not be there. I didn’t like what I read."
Guilfoyle's departure means she will leave behind Jefferson House, located on Panagi Kyriakou Street in Athens' upscale Kolonaki neighborhood. This area is known for its high property values, with homes averaging approximately $660 per square foot, and prime locations fetching closer to $1,000 per square foot.
The diplomatic compound, details of which are kept private for security reasons, blends Greek architectural influences with a Palm Beach aesthetic. The property features manicured gardens, a swimming pool, and a veranda. Inside, the residence is designed to accommodate official functions and private living quarters, incorporating both Greek artistry and American cultural elements.
Previous ambassadors have utilized the estate for diplomatic events, including hosting dignitaries and celebrating national holidays. Guilfoyle reportedly made personal adjustments to the residence, including a request for a $58,000 basketball court adjacent to the pool and gardens, and displaying large portraits of herself.
Guilfoyle's resignation follows a series of reports from The Wall Street Journal. These reports alleged that she promoted a Greek construction firm, sought $100,000 from a Trump donor to cover an American Express bill prior to her confirmation, and accepted private jet travel and hotel stays paid for by shipping magnate Nikolas Tsakos. Guilfoyle has denied these allegations, stating the job has been "the honor of a lifetime" and vowing to clear her name.
It is anticipated that Guilfoyle will return to Florida, though her specific post-ambassador plans have not been officially confirmed. In the interim, a career diplomat is expected to manage the embassy as chargé d’affaires until a successor is named.