Kimberly Guilfoyle, nominee to Greece, pledges to strengthen defense, energy and economic ties

Kimberly Guilfoyle, nominated to be U.S. ambassador to Greece, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee she would be a "tireless advocate for American interests" in Athens and would prioritize defense cooperation, energy links and trade if confirmed.

Guilfoyle highlighted Greece's rising defense commitments and recent purchases of U.S. equipment, and said she would work to "accelerate Greece's defense modernization by fostering even greater cooperation and synergy between our defense sectors." She told senators that Greece is expanding LNG infrastructure and regional energy interconnections that present opportunities for U.S. energy exports.

Committee members questioned her about regional tensions — especially maritime and sovereignty disputes with Turkey — and asked whether she would press for adherence to international maritime law and work closely with the U.S. ambassador to Turkey. Guilfoyle said she expects to coordinate with career State Department officials and with neighboring U.S. missions and that she would visit military and energy facilities to better assess needs and opportunities.

Guilfoyle described deep ties between the United States and Greece, citing the Greek American community and cultural links. She said she would champion religious freedom and work to expand trade and investment across multiple sectors, including defense, energy, shipping and technology.

The hearing was a nomination testimony and Q&A session; no committee vote took place during the hearing.