US Ambassador to Greece Allegedly Claims US Can Topple Governments
US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle sparked a diplomatic row after allegedly telling a Greek minister the US could topple any government it chooses.
U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle sparked a diplomatic controversy following reports that she claimed the United States could topple any government it chooses. During a dinner in Athens in March, Guilfoyle allegedly discussed the collapse of Romania's government and told Greek Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, "We can do that to any country we want. We can do that here," referring to Greece.
Papastavrou reportedly responded that the U.S. could not replace a government elected by the people. While Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis denied that the issue of changing the government was ever raised, opposition parties have reacted strongly. Harry Tzimitras, head of foreign affairs for the left-wing Elas party, demanded that the allegations be addressed immediately.
The incident occurs as Guilfoyle pushes for increased U.S. liquefied natural gas sales in Southeastern Europe. In response to the broader tensions, the United States Department of State issued a statement affirming that the strategic partnership with Romania remains strong.
