Trump Hails Strongest Ever US-Greece Ties, Expresses Desire to Visit Athens
Washington D.C., February 18, 2026 – During a credentialing ceremony for the new Greek Ambassador to the US, Antonis Alexandridis, President Donald Trump declared that bilateral relations between Washington and Athens “have never been stronger.” The President also expressed his deep admiration for Greece and noted his desire to visit the country.
Significant Potential for Deeper Cooperation
Characterizing Greece as a “valuable partner and ally,” President Trump highlighted significant potential for deeper cooperation across various sectors, including shipping, trade, energy, and investment. This acknowledgment underscores the growing strategic importance of the US-Greece partnership.
Guilfoyle First to Announce Trump’s Visit
Earlier in February, US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle had already announced that the US President would be visiting Greece. Speaking to reporters shortly before the premiere of a documentary centered on Melania Trump, Guilfoyle confirmed the President’s impending visit.
“I hope she [Melania] comes. I know the President is coming, and I am truly looking forward to both of them visiting Greece. It will be an incredible honor for the country,” Guilfoyle stated, indicating a high-level visit in the near future.
Shared Democratic and Intellectual Heritage
President Trump described the friendship between the two nations as “strong, historic, and rooted in a shared democratic and intellectual heritage.” This statement emphasizes the foundational values that connect the United States and Greece, highlighting their historical and cultural ties.
Trump Praises Greece on Defense and Energy
The President specifically praised Greece’s progress toward the NATO defense spending goal of 5% of GDP, noting that Athens demonstrates “true leadership” within the Alliance. “Peace is secured through strength,” he remarked, commending Greece’s commitment to collective security.
On the energy front, President Trump highlighted US LNG exports and the “Vertical Corridor,” noting that these infrastructure projects will bolster regional energy security. This signifies a focus on energy independence and diversification for the region.
He also expressed appreciation for Greece’s “courage” in abstaining from the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) net-zero emissions framework, which he argued would burden consumers and global trade. This stance aligns with the Trump administration’s previous positions on environmental regulations and their economic impact.
Discussions on Shipbuilding and Trade
Finally, discussions touched upon shipbuilding cooperation, including the potential construction of American frigates in Greece, and expanding trade ties. These initiatives suggest a deepening of economic and defense cooperation between the two countries.
President Trump concluded by asking Ambassador Alexandridis to convey his warm regards to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, reinforcing the personal connection between the leaders of both nations.
Source: https://greekreporter.com/2026/02/18/trump-hails-strongest-ever-us-greece-ties-expresses-desire-visit-athens/
