THESSALONIKI — Greece occupies a central position in Donald Trump’s strategic planning for energy, artificial intelligence and regional stability, U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle said during a visit to Thessaloniki, where she held a series of political, business and community meetings.
Speaking to the Athens–Macedonian News Agency, Guilfoyle emphasized that for President Trump, Greece’s emergence as an energy hub in Southeastern Europe is of “critical importance,” linking the country’s energy role directly to broader geopolitical stability. “Energy independence equals national security,” she said, citing the Ukraine–Russia war as a clear example of the dangers of energy dependence.
Focus on Transatlantic Energy Cooperation
The ambassador highlighted increasing American interest in energy infrastructure across Greece, including the Vertical Corridor, major ports, and the strategic role of Alexandroupoli with its FSRU facilities. She confirmed that Washington will host a new 3+1 meeting (Greece, Cyprus, Israel, USA) in early 2026, dedicated exclusively to energy cooperation.
Guilfoyle also referenced her participation in discussions between President Zelensky and Prime Minister Mitsotakis on supplying U.S. LNG to Ukraine to ensure the country’s resilience through the winter and strengthen its position in peace negotiations.
Growing U.S. Investment Interest
In Thessaloniki, Guilfoyle met with business leaders from technology, pharmaceuticals and key industrial sectors of Northern Greece. She reported a “strong appetite for investment” from American companies, noting that investors are looking for stability, predictability and a clear policy roadmap. “Greece is at a moment of enormous opportunity,” she said.
She pointed to the recent P-TEC summit in Athens, where major agreements were signed reinforcing Greece’s role as a transatlantic energy gateway.
Energy and AI: “Whoever Controls Energy, Controls AI”
The ambassador stressed Northern Greece’s rise as an emerging technology and AI hub, referencing the recent U.S.–Greece declaration on strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence and innovation.
“Whoever controls energy will control AI,” she said, arguing that Greece has the potential to become a leading regional player in the development of advanced technologies.
A Reliable U.S. Ally
Guilfoyle described the U.S.–Greece partnership as “historically stable and reliable,” praising Greece as a country on which the United States can consistently depend. Strengthening this alliance, she added, is a core priority of her tenure.
Meetings on Social Issues and Religious Freedom
During her visit, she met with Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, praising the Church’s initiatives against domestic violence. Drawing on her own experience as a prosecutor, she discussed programs that support women escaping abusive environments and re-entering the workforce.

She also highlighted religious freedom as a key component of Trump’s platform and one of the reasons she felt aligned with her mission in Greece.
Support for Holocaust Museum and Freedom Square Redevelopment
Guilfoyle held talks with leaders of the Jewish Community of Thessaloniki on the progress of the Holocaust Museum of Greece and the transformation of Freedom Square into a memorial park. She said she has received assurances that both projects will move forward and vowed to help secure fundraising support if needed.
“Thessaloniki Has Won a Special Place in My Heart”
Impressed by the city’s culture, history and hospitality, the ambassador said Thessaloniki exceeded her expectations and that she intends to return frequently. She described her mission in Greece as an “exciting new chapter,” attributing her success to her upbringing, her faith, and the support of her son.
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