Kimberly Guilfoyle Takes Firm Stance on F-35 Sale to Turkey: Ankara Has Chosen to Proceed with Russia’s S-400 Missile Systems

Turkey’s decision to move forward with Russia’s S-400 missile defense systems raises serious concerns about its alignment with NATO’s strategic objectives, stated Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. ambassadorial nominee, in response to a question from Senator Jim Risch regarding Greek-Turkish tensions and the potential sale of F-35 jets to Ankara.

“Our allies must align with the needs of the Alliance,” she emphasized.

Guilfoyle noted that her approach would focus on promoting stability and strengthening strategic partnerships in the region. Senator Risch stated that the Senate would continue to block the sale of F-35s to Turkey, while Guilfoyle responded that she is working closely with U.S. Ambassador to Ankara Jeff Barak and had a productive collaboration with former U.S. Ambassador to Athens George Tsunis.

Guilfoyle highlighted that her priority would be to deepen trilateral cooperation frameworks, including U.S.-Greece-Israel and U.S.-Greece-Cyprus, describing them as “pillars of stability” in the Eastern Mediterranean. “If my nomination is confirmed, I will do everything in my power to strengthen these relationships,” she declared.

She made special mention of the Greek-American diaspora, speaking warmly of their contributions and emphasizing the importance of cultural and human ties that bind the two nations.

Addressing a question from Senator Christopher Van Hollen regarding Turkish violations of Greek airspace and adherence to the law of the sea, Guilfoyle referenced her respect for international law and the principles of the NATO alliance. “As a former prosecutor, I have always had a deep respect for the rule of law,” she said, adding that U.S. positions are guided by the State Department’s policies. “The U.S. acts in its interests while sending a clear message internationally,” she noted, further stating: “We must support our allies and demonstrate this commitment in practice. Those who have proven to be strong and reliable allies must be honored.”

Greece: A Pillar of Stability and a Reliable NATO Ally

During her Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing, Kimberly Guilfoyle, the proposed U.S. ambassador to Greece, underscored Greece’s role as a pillar of stability. “If confirmed, I am committed to fully leveraging my professional experience in Athens. I am ready to be a tireless advocate for American interests, a steadfast partner to our Greek allies, and a proud and loyal representative of President Trump and the American people,” she stated.

In her opening remarks, Guilfoyle highlighted Greece’s critical role in NATO’s southern flank, noting its strong defense ties and consistent fulfillment of alliance commitments, particularly regarding defense spending targets. She also emphasized Greece’s emerging importance as a key energy hub in the region, specifically mentioning the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Revithoussa, the vertical corridor through Alexandroupolis, and electrical interconnection projects with Cyprus and Israel.

NATO and Defense Cooperation

“Over recent decades, Greece has emerged as a pillar of stability in a complex region, and its commitment to our collective security within NATO is more significant than ever. Greece consistently ranks among the allies with the highest defense expenditures, projected to invest 3% of its GDP in defense in 2025, with a trajectory to reach 5%, in line with the alliance’s Hague commitment,” Guilfoyle stated.

“This is not merely a matter of statistics; it represents a tangible investment in our collective security. A significant portion of these expenditures has been directed toward acquiring cutting-edge U.S. defense technology, including formidable F-35 fighter jets, advanced Apache and Black Hawk helicopters, and modern naval vessels. Additionally, the proposed joint project for co-producing naval frigates demonstrates Greece’s long-term commitment to our strategic defense partnership.”

She added that these modernization efforts enhance Greece’s significant military capabilities, strengthen NATO’s eastern flank, and create valuable opportunities for American industry. “If confirmed, I will prioritize accelerating Greece’s defense modernization, further enhancing cooperation and synergies between our defense sectors.”

Greece as an Energy Hub

“The United States and Greece have made tremendous progress in energy cooperation. The LNG terminal at Revithoussa and the construction of a floating storage and regasification unit in Alexandroupolis enable the U.S. to export more natural gas to Europe. While U.S. natural gas now accounts for 20% of Greece’s supply—up from 2% five years ago—there are significant opportunities to increase American energy exports to Greece and its neighbors,” Guilfoyle noted.

“If confirmed, I will work to advance the so-called vertical corridor connecting Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, and Central Europe, positioning Greece as a hub for American natural gas in the region. I will also encourage progress on Greece’s electrical interconnection projects with Cyprus, Israel, and Egypt, which contribute to regional energy diversification and security.”

Economic Cooperation

“Economic opportunities remain a cornerstone of the strong U.S.-Greece relationship. If confirmed, I will serve as a strategic partner in promoting U.S. trade and investment interests, building on successful efforts to expand opportunities for American companies in key sectors, including defense, energy, shipping, infrastructure, technology, artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, hospitality, and agriculture.”

She added, “I will also actively seek ways to encourage and facilitate Greek investments in the United States, fostering a more balanced, resilient, and mutually beneficial economic partnership.”