The distance is great—from here to Washington D.C. So the communication was over the phone, via WhatsApp. It was midnight, Greek time. Over there, on the other side of the Atlantic, it was afternoon. His voice was steady, familiar. His Greek was broken. Chris Marafatsos of the Greek-American community. Christos Marafatsos.

I didn’t know him. I stumbled across his name purely by chance while browsing through various platforms. A real political scoop, this Christaras. And what isn’t he! And where isn’t he! One of the best-known figures in the Greek-American lobby. A frequent “visitor” to Donald Trump’s inner circle. One of the closest to Kimberly Guilfoyle’s circle. Who, incidentally, as Chris told me, will be arriving to take up her post at the U.S. Embassy in Athens toward the end of the summer.

Why the delay? Because the bureaucratic procedures over there are endless—and necessary.

My conversation with him was one of the most challenging and political ones I’ve had. It took over fifteen days to make it happen. I tried to draw him out, to spark some spontaneity. But he carefully chose every single word. Everything he said had passed through a filter of thought and political calculation.

Simply put, this conversation was dressed in formality. But if I take into account what he told me about the political relationship between Washington and the White House with Athens and the Maximos Mansion, then frankly, it couldn’t have been better. He explains it all, one by one.

In summary, on bilateral ties:

“Our relationship is deeply aligned. What’s particularly exciting is the growing number of Greek companies now investing in the United States or forming joint ventures with American firms. This marks a significant shift in our bilateral economic relationship, and I’m proud to have led this momentum.”

In summary, on the U.S. President:

“President Trump has made one thing very clear: under his leadership, Greece will never be left alone. The United States has a history of standing by its closest allies—and just as we unconditionally support Israel, we must support Greece with the same clarity and determination.”

In summary, on the upcoming arrival of the new ambassador:

“I’ve known Kimberly since the early days of the Trump movement. She’s a passionate defender of freedom, a brilliant communicator, and a patriot who truly understands what’s at stake—for America and for our allies. She has visited Greece many times. She knows the region. She understands the people. But most importantly, she respects the Church, the culture, and the need for sustained strategic alignment between Greece and the U.S. As U.S. Ambassador, she will be unlike any other American representative Greece has ever had. She will engage at the highest levels of government, business, and faith. She will be hands-on. She will be present. And she will make it clear: when Greece wins, America wins.”

And in summary, about his political role:

“Today, I serve as president of ‘Greek-Americans for Trump,’ working proudly alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.”

Well, what more can I say? The mic goes to Chris Marafatsos.

Scene 1: “Hellenism is not just cultural heritage – it’s our moral compass”

Who is Christos Marafatsos? Where are his roots? What is his connection to the Republican Party? What did he study? What is his political role?

This was the first foundation of our conversation:

“I was born and raised in Washington, D.C., but my roots are proudly and deeply Greek. My father, George Marafatsos, was born in Sparta and immigrated to the United States at age eleven, embodying the immigrant dream and instilling in our family the timeless values of hard work, faith, and honor. My grandparents came from the Laconian villages of Krokees and Vordonia. People of the land, of the Church, and of resilience. On my mother’s side, our family comes from Kardamyla in Chios and from Athens. My grandmother Despina was born in Steubenville, Ohio, and raised us to believe that Hellenism is not just cultural heritage – it’s our moral compass.” “I hold a business administration degree from the Smith School at the University of Maryland and a Master’s in Finance from Georgetown University – institutions that shaped my understanding of global commerce, strategic policy, and leadership. For the past decade, I have worked at the intersection of business, foreign policy, and governance—advising American and international companies, leading global agreements, and representing the U.S. in diplomatic circles.” “Today, I serve as president of ‘Greek-Americans for Trump,’ proudly working alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. I also sit on the boards of CPAC, Bienvenido, and the Federation of Black Conservatives. While I’ve always fought for stronger U.S.-Greece relations, I have also dedicated my career to building global partnerships rooted in American strength.”

Dimitris Danikas: What do you carry most from your Greek heritage?
Christos Marafatsos:

“Filotimo. It’s untranslatable into other languages, but we all feel it deep in our souls. It’s the obligation to do the right thing—not for recognition, but because that’s who we are. This sense of honor, of duty to family, to God, to your word—it defines everything I do.” “My grandparents built their lives from nothing—and never complained. They endured war, poverty, and displacement. Yet they gave more than they had. In today’s world—so full of entitlement and moral relativism—that foundation of character is a compass I never abandon. It fuels my beliefs, my diplomacy, my service to the Greek-American community, and my faith in President Trump’s mission to restore American greatness through faith, strength, and principle.”

Scene 2: “Prime Minister Mitsotakis deserves credit”

Danikas: Do you visit Greece often? Which places are closest to your heart?
Marafatsos:

“Yes, I visit Greece several times a year. I’ve had the honor of traveling to almost every region—from Athens and Thessaloniki to the Peloponnese and islands like Paxoi, Milos, Kefalonia, Crete, Koufonisia, and Ikaria. Greece isn’t just a destination—it’s living history. For me, Athens, Sparta, and Chios are especially close to my heart, but every part of the country has something unique and unforgettable.”

Danikas: What’s your view on the current Greek government and U.S.-Greece relations?
Marafatsos:

“Prime Minister Mitsotakis deserves credit for keeping Greece stable in turbulent global times. Under his leadership, Greece has taken steps toward modernization and has gained greater international credibility. That said, the real breakthrough will come under a second Trump presidency—because President Trump doesn’t just manage alliances; he maximizes them. Under Trump, U.S.-Greece relations evolved from symbolic to strategic.” “We elevated our defense cooperation, expanded energy corridors, and initiated serious trade dialogues. We saw increased investment in Alexandroupoli, the strengthening of Souda Bay, and growing interest from tech sector investors in Greece.” “But we’ve only scratched the surface. Greece is uniquely positioned to become a gateway for American capital into Southeastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Under President Trump, that vision becomes a roadmap—with trade, energy, defense, and innovation at its core.”

Danikas: Are the ties between Greece and the U.S. really that strong?
Marafatsos:

“Absolutely—and more strategic than ever. From the defense cooperation in Souda Bay—one of NATO’s most critical bases—to growing investments in energy, technology, and shipping, our relationship is deeply aligned. What’s especially exciting is the increasing number of Greek companies now investing in the U.S. or forming joint ventures with American firms. That marks a significant shift in our bilateral economic relationship, and I’m proud to have led that momentum.” “The Greek-American community is also one of the most respected and influential ethnic groups in the U.S., acting as a living bridge between our two nations. This close relationship is rooted in shared values—freedom, democracy, faith—and that’s what will keep it strong for generations to come.”

Scene 3: “Trump doesn’t govern for the headlines—he governs for History.”

Danikas: What’s your relationship with Donald Trump and the Republican Party?
Marafatsos:

“My relationship with the Republican Party began well before President Trump—during the 2012 presidential election. Since then, I’ve had the honor of advising the Party on diaspora engagement, economic policy, and strategic outreach. But it was in 2016, with the rise of Donald J. Trump, that I saw a leader whose vision matched the urgency of the historical moment—and whose actions aligned with his rhetoric.” “Since then, I’ve proudly served as a Greek-American advisor to President Trump and as co-chair of Greek-Americans for Trump. During his first term, I was appointed Vice Chair of the National Diversity Coalition for Trump, helping unite communities of faith, business, and tradition behind a shared purpose: restoring American strength.”

Danikas: Have you participated in the current President’s election campaigns?
Marafatsos:

“I’ve worked across three presidential cycles. I’ve led multiple initiatives on national policy issues, as well as high-level diplomatic efforts both domestically and internationally. Currently, I serve on the executive boards of CPAC, Bienvenido, and the Federation of Black Conservatives. All of these organizations are rooted in promoting bold, principled, pro-growth leadership.” “What’s important is that I never approached this work as a career politician—but as a citizen committed to results. I’ve focused on elevating the role of Greece, Cyprus, Orthodoxy, and Hellenism in U.S. foreign policy, and expanding conservative influence among global partners. What I admire most about President Trump is his fearless, results-driven approach. He doesn’t govern for the headlines—he governs for History. And in a world that’s desperately searching for leadership, that kind of clarity and courage isn’t just rare—it’s essential.”

Danikas: Since you’re close to the ambassador-designate, what should Greece expect from Kimberly Guilfoyle?
Marafatsos:

“I’ve known Kimberly since the early days of the Trump movement. She’s a fierce defender of freedom, a brilliant communicator, and a patriot who truly understands what’s at stake—for America and for our allies. She has visited Greece multiple times. She knows the region. She understands the people. But most importantly, she respects the Church, the culture, and the need for lasting strategic alignment between Greece and the U.S.” “As U.S. Ambassador, Kimberly Guilfoyle will be unlike any representative Greece has ever had. She will be engaged at the highest levels of government, business, and Faith. She’ll be hands-on. She’ll be present. And she’ll make it clear: when Greece wins, America wins.”

Scene 4: “A meeting between Mitsotakis and Trump would be timely and especially productive.”

Danikas: Is Kimberly Guilfoyle a woman of faith? What role will religion play in her leadership?
Marafatsos:

“Yes—Kimberly is deeply religious and spiritually grounded. After her nomination, some of her first calls were to Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and Archbishop Ieronymos of Greece. She’s not only devout, but also deeply educated about the role the Church plays in Greek society. She understands the threats facing the Ecumenical Patriarchate and has both the courage and the platform to defend it. Alongside President Trump—who has consistently supported religious freedom worldwide—Kimberly will be a global advocate for Orthodox Christians.”

Danikas: If tensions with Turkey escalate, how will the U.S. respond? Will Greece be safe?
Marafatsos:

“President Trump has made one thing very clear: under his leadership, Greece will never be left alone. The United States has a history of defending its closest allies—and just as we support Israel unconditionally, we must support Greece with the same clarity and resolve. Trump is the only modern leader who ends wars—he doesn’t start them. He understands that peace is preserved through strength and credible deterrence. His leadership holds adversaries accountable. With him in power, Greece’s sovereignty and regional security can—and must—be fully protected.”

Danikas: Is there a scheduled meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Mitsotakis?
Marafatsos:

“While I cannot confirm any specific plans, I can say with certainty that such a meeting would be timely and especially productive. Strengthening the strategic dialogue between our nations serves both sides—especially now, as we enter a new chapter of security and economic cooperation.”

Scene 5: “72–78% of Greek-American voters supported President Trump”

Danikas: Does the Greek-American community support President Trump?
Marafatsos:

“Without a doubt—and in historic numbers. In the 2024 election, Greek-Americans overwhelmingly supported President Donald J. Trump, delivering one of the highest national majority margins in the country. In key battleground states like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio—where the Greek-American vote carries strategic weight—exit polls and precinct data showed that over 72–78% of Greek-American voters cast their ballots for President Trump. This wasn’t merely a reflection of party loyalty—it was a resounding endorsement of his values, his track record, and his vision.”

Danikas: What is the main reason for this massive support?
Marafatsos:

“President Trump speaks to the values Greek-Americans believe in: religious freedom, national sovereignty, strong borders, economic independence, and peace through strength. Greek-Americans are deeply patriotic, entrepreneurial, and rooted in Faith—and these principles naturally align with President Trump’s leadership. He is the first modern president to elevate Hellenism, Orthodoxy, and U.S.-Greece relations as a strategic priority within American foreign policy.”

Danikas: Everything you’re saying is quite impressive.
Marafatsos:

“Greek-Americans have also seen firsthand how under President Trump, America stood taller, its allies were respected, and its adversaries were held in check. Whether it was defending religious minorities in the Middle East, confronting Turkish aggression in the Eastern Mediterranean, or supporting bilateral trade and energy deals involving Greece—President Trump delivered more than promises; he delivered results.

This support wasn’t limited to voters. Prominent Greek-American business leaders, clergy, community organizations, and national advocacy groups rallied behind his campaign. The Greek-American community helped organize major events, fundraisers, and diplomatic briefings across the country during the campaign—all aimed at strengthening the alliance between American power and Greek values.

In short, President Trump didn’t just receive the Greek-American vote—he earned it. And in 2024, the community responded with overwhelming support that helped return him to the White House.”

Scene 6: “President Trump’s foreign policy has always been rooted in strength, deterrence, and results”

Danikas: What is your view on global developments and the future?
Marafatsos:

“The world is emerging from one of the most turbulent geopolitical chapters in modern history—marked by devastating wars, runaway inflation, and a glaring absence of principled leadership. Still, I believe we are standing at the threshold of a global reset. And that reset will be led by the return of President Donald J. Trump.”

Danikas: And how would you define the foreign policy of today’s American leadership?
Marafatsos:

“President Trump’s foreign policy has always been rooted in strength, deterrence, and outcomes. He doesn’t believe in endless conflicts—he believes in strategic resolution. I am confident that under his leadership, we will see a pathway to peace in Eastern Europe, including an end to the devastating war in Ukraine, which is already costing the lives of over 50,000 Orthodox Christians every month.

He will restore deterrence in the Middle East, bringing stability to Israel and the broader region through diplomacy backed by determination—not weakness.”

Danikas: Can you be more specific regarding economic policy?
Marafatsos:

“Beyond war and peace, President Trump also brings clarity to international economics. He will renegotiate trade relationships to ensure they are reciprocal, enforceable, and beneficial to both the U.S. and its true allies.

This isn’t about isolationism. It’s about fairness, sovereignty, and shared prosperity. We don’t need more summits with no results. We need vision backed by action. Peace must be principled. Diplomacy must be strategic. And leadership must once again mean something.

As someone who has spent his career building economic and political bridges—particularly between the United States and Greece—I deeply believe in a future shaped by cooperation, security, and opportunity. That future is possible, and I intend to be part of making it a reality.”

Epilogue: “And those who move boldly with us, will rise with us”

Danikas: And what about the burning issue of tariffs? Globally—and of course, in regard to Greece?

Marafatsos:

“President Trump’s approach to global trade is rooted in a fundamental principle: fairness. For decades, the United States has borne the costs of an unbalanced global trade system. Countries across the world—not just in Europe—enjoyed preferential access to U.S. markets while imposing aggressive regulations, tariffs, and barriers on American goods, services, and companies.

That’s not free trade—that’s exploitative trade. So, these tariffs are not about isolationism. They’re about redefining the global playing field. It’s a message to the world: the era of America being taken advantage of is over.

That said, this is also a moment of unprecedented opportunity for America’s allies—especially Greece. President Trump is, at heart, a negotiator. He respects strength, vision, and strategic partnership. Countries that step forward now to negotiate strong, mutually beneficial trade deals with the U.S. will become the preferred economic allies of the world’s largest economy. And Greece is ideally positioned to lead the way.

I believe Greece and the United States must seize this moment—not just to defend, but to advance. To redefine their relationship not only through friendship and history, but through strategic economics.”

He then laid out, point by point, the key elements of such a strategic economic vision:

Agriculture:

“Boosting high-quality Greek exports to the U.S. and opening channels for American innovation in agricultural technology to enter Greece.”

Energy:

“Expanding cooperation on liquefied natural gas (LNG), turning Greece into a southeastern European hub for energy security.”

Technology:

“Encouraging U.S.-Greece joint ventures in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.”

Defense & Pharmaceuticals:

“Producing components and systems in Greece for NATO supply chains in partnership with American firms.”

Shipping & Maritime Logistics:

“Leveraging Greece’s shipping strength with American investments and supply chain technology.”

And before we closed our conversation, he said—with resolute and categorical tone:

“With the right vision, I believe we can triple or even quadruple bilateral trade. Today, trade between our two countries hovers around $3 billion annually. There’s no reason we can’t bring that to $10–12 billion within a decade.

This isn’t the time to complain about tariffs—it’s time to act. Greece should be among the first to forge a modern trade agreement with President Trump’s administration. One based on trust, resilience, and a shared vision for prosperity.

The U.S. is not retreating from the world—we’re redefining our role. And those who move boldly with us, will rise with us.”

As the call ended, I said to myself:
“Could it be, my friend, that we are standing at the threshold of a true and blooming Spring?”