Josh Huck Named Acting Head of U.S. Embassy in Athens
The veteran diplomat assumes leadership after the dismissal of Kimberly Guilfoyle as U.S. Ambassador to Greece.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in International Relations
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Josh Huck has been appointed as the acting head of the U.S. Embassy in Athens following the dismissal of Kimberly Guilfoyle. He will manage embassy operations until a permanent successor is confirmed.
Why it matters
The transition ensures continued diplomatic representation in Greece while the long process to appoint and confirm a permanent ambassador is underway.
Josh Huck is a career diplomat who joined the U.S. Foreign Service in 2001. His interim leadership role follows the departure of the former ambassador on October 13, 2026.
The players
Josh Huck
He is the current deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Athens and a veteran diplomat.
Kimberly Guilfoyle
She was the U.S. Ambassador to Greece until her dismissal on October 13, 2026.
Kurt Campbell
He is a senior diplomat and official for whom Josh Huck served as chief of staff.
The details
Huck previously served as the deputy chief of mission at the embassy and held the position of Deputy Assistant Secretary of State responsible for Southern Europe and the Caucasus. He also served as chief of staff to Kurt Campbell and holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and the International University of Japan.
Timeline
Josh Huck joined the U.S. Foreign Service in 2001.
Kimberly Guilfoyle was dismissed from her post on October 13, 2026.
A permanent successor may be confirmed in the early months of 2027.
Political Context
This appointment reflects the standard diplomatic hierarchy where career staff assume duties during leadership voids. Opposition groups often critique the reliance on interim heads, arguing for the necessity of confirmed, politically appointed ambassadors to drive specific administration priorities.
The appointment of an acting head maintains operational continuity for embassy services, including visa processing and citizen support in Greece. U.S. residents traveling to or living in the region should expect no immediate disruptions to standard consular assistance.
The takeaway
Diplomatic transitions often require extended periods of interim leadership due to rigorous confirmation requirements. Career diplomats like Huck play a vital role in preventing policy gaps during these standard administrative shifts.
What happens next
The formal confirmation process for a permanent successor is expected to begin in the coming months, with potential resolution projected for early 2027.
Further reading
For more information on diplomatic transitions, visit our International Relations section.
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