Wall Street Journal report raises questions over US ambassador's role in Balkan gas deal

A Wall Street Journal investigation has sparked scrutiny over US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle and her advisor, energy lobbyist Christos Marafatsos, regarding their involvement in commercial energy deals across Europe. Reporting indicates that Guilfoyle facilitated discussions between Greek energy firm Aktor and Albanian officials, leading to a $6 billion gas supply agreement signed in Tirana.

The investigation highlights potential conflicts of interest surrounding Marafatsos's simultaneous roles as a private lobbyist and diplomatic aide. Media reports have raised questions about the boundaries separating official American foreign policy, private corporate interests, and Greece's expanding footprint in the Balkan energy sector. Neither US officials nor representatives for Aktor have publicly confirmed any ethical violations regarding the diplomatic backing of the deal.

Sources: Gazeta Tema, Koha