Trump’s ambassador to Greece asked to resign amid misconduct allegations

United States President Donald Trump's administration's ambassador to Greece, Kimberley Guilfoyle, has resigned after a series of allegations of misconduct, including claims that she offered a political donor access to senior administration office-holders in exchange for funds.

Key points

• "We have asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign, " White House press secretary Katie Zacharia remarked to journalists on Tuesday.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially defended Guilfoyle, calling her a "strong ambassador, " but afterwards declined to comment on the allegations and criticised reporters for asking concerning them.
• Trump had signalled on Monday that he was considering removing her from the post.
• Guilfoyle is a former Fox News host and California prosecutor.
• In an official note after the announcement, Guilfoyle denied the allegations against her.

"We have asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign, " White House press secretary Katie Zacharia remarked to journalists on Tuesday. "She has been a wonderful asset to the team, and we wish her well." The announcement comes after weeks of damaging reports regarding Guilfoyle's conduct.

"These allegations are false, and I intend to vigorously defend my name, my reputation, and my integrity, " she remarked.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Guilfoyle asked a Trump donor to cover a $100, 000 credit card bill shortly before her congressional confirmation hearing, promising him access to administration authorities in return.

According to The newspaper additionally, she informed guests at a reception that she could apply US influence to undermine the Greek administration, promoted the interests of a Greek construction and energy business and allowed one of its lobbyists to attend private diplomatic meetings.

Guilfoyle's lawyers have denied any wrongdoing, saying the funds she sought was payment for previous speaking engagements and public appearances that she had not received.

Trump had signalled on Monday that he was considering removing her from the post. "Well, we're looking at it, " he remarked to journalists. "We're not happy."

Guilfoyle is a former Fox News host and California prosecutor. She is the former wife of California Governor Gavin Newsom and was previously engaged to Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr.

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