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2026-09-29 13:51 UTC → 2026-09-29 15:51 UTC ·
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A The political scandal, referred to by Romanian media scandal known as ‘Kimberligate’, ‘Kimberligate’ has emerged intensified following reports that the regarding a March meeting between U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, allegedly claimed the United States has the capability to topple governments Guilfoyle and Social Democratic Party (PSD) leaders. While allegations suggest U.S. involvement in any country. The controversy centers on the May dismissal of Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan via a motion of censure. Allegations suggest that U.S. officials may have worked to trigger this collapse after Bolojan reportedly refused a costly agreement due to import disputes over American liquefied natural gas (LNG) through imports, PSD President Sorin Grindeanu has denied any political interference. Grindeanu stated that discussions were strictly limited to Romania’s role as a transit hub for the Vertical Gas Corridor. Reports indicate Corridor and did not involve gas supply contracts. Supporting this, Interim Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu clarified that Guilfoyle may have been lobbying for these energy interests during meetings the U.S. Ambassador was in Bucharest involving Social Democratic Party leaders. While the Social Democratic Party maintains that discussions focused strictly on strategic energy transit, opposition leaders are demanding formal inquiries into potential external interference. Romanian officials have responded by stating that diplomatic visits were for a private business rather than state negotiations, event and lacked a mandate to conduct official government negotiations. Domestic political tensions persist as Cluj County Council President Alin Tișe called on the U.S. Ambassador National Liberal Party (PNL) to Romania has expressed confidence clarify its position to safeguard the strategic partnership with the United States. Additionally, Interim Minister Dragoș Pîslaru criticized the PSD, suggesting the party may be prioritizing leadership ambitions over national stability in its potential opposition to the country’s democratic processes. upcoming Mureșan Government.