Kimberly Guilfoyle: Concerns Over Turkish Provocations Against Greece and Reservations About F-35s Are Valid

ATHENS — The countdown has begun for Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is set to officially assume her duties as U.S. Ambassador to Greece.

During her recent Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, Guilfoyle addressed several issues pertinent to Greek affairs. Government sources noted that the hearing underscored bipartisan support for Greek-American relations. Senators endorsed Greece’s positions, highlighting the preparatory work by the Greek Foreign Minister, who had previously met with key figures such as Senator Cory Booker, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch, and Senator Chris Van Hollen.

Senator Cory Booker emphasized the need to strengthen the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) framework. He expressed concerns about Greek-Turkish relations, noting that Turkey’s provocations against Greek sovereignty and maritime borders continue to raise the risk of heightened tensions.

In response, Guilfoyle called these concerns “entirely valid,” stressing that similar reservations are shared by other U.S. allies, such as Israel and Cyprus, particularly regarding Turkey’s potential acquisition of advanced U.S. weapons like the F-35. She praised Greece for exceeding NATO defense spending obligations at over 3% of GDP, ranking it fifth globally in defense procurement.

Committee Chairman Jim Risch stated he has blocked and will continue to block F-35 transfers to Turkey, citing Turkey’s territorial claims against Greece. He noted that tensions in Greek-Turkish relations are underreported in U.S. media.

Senator Chris Van Hollen asked Guilfoyle if she agrees that Turkish provocations in air and sea must be addressed under international law. Guilfoyle affirmed she would align with U.S. State Department and presidential directives, committing to deepen bilateral cooperation. Van Hollen highlighted Greece’s adherence to international law, which he said serves its interests, and stressed that the U.S. must support the application of international law in such cases.

For more news from Greece and the world, visit greekcotytimes.gr