Ultimately, the relationship between the Archbishop of America and the Maximos Mansion appears unlikely (if not extremely unlikely) to be restored.
First of all, let me clarify that despite Archbishop Elpidophoros’ assurances to the contrary, his channels of access to the Prime Minister’s office remain nonexistent.
We had already realized this back in May 2024, when the Archbishop organized an event in Athens that was attended by nearly everyone—except the government! To put things in perspective, the government’s representation at that event was at the level of a general secretary of a ministry.
As for the Prime Minister? That wasn’t even up for discussion. He didn’t even send a greeting message. And yet, he has repeatedly demonstrated that he actively seeks out such events—especially when there is a strong Greek-American presence.
At the time, this story was largely ignored due to the Archbishop’s significant political entanglements. So why are we bringing it up now? Because Elpidophoros was once again—completely—ignored by the Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs, who spent several days last week in both New York and Washington, D.C.
To be honest, when I first read George Gerapetritis’ schedule, I found this omission surprising. But then came the intervention of John Catsimatidis, which made the situation impossible to overlook. However, this is where things start to get complicated. Let me explain.
Catsimatidis is currently the only influential Greek-American figure with proven access to both the White House and Donald Trump. So when he publicly expresses his disappointment—if not outright frustration—over Athens’ treatment of the Archbishop of America, things inevitably take a more complex turn.
And I find myself wondering: What exactly caused this major rupture between Maximos Mansion and the Archdiocese? The prevailing theory points to Elpidophoros’ visit to the “Turkish House” years ago, when he attended its inauguration alongside Erdogan. That visit left a very negative impression on the Greek-American community, on Nicosia, and several circles in Athens.
However, since then, even the Greek Prime Minister has met with Erdogan at the same “House”—albeit at a politically neutral time. So, there must be another underlying issue.
For the record, it is well known that Elpidophoros does not have a good relationship (at all) with certain influential Greek-American circles. Additionally, it is said that Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandra Papadopoulou does not hold a favorable opinion of him, dating back to her time as Greece’s ambassador to Washington.
On the other hand, the fact that Catsimatidis has intervened in favor of the Archbishop gives him credibility. And perhaps this also explains the access he seems to have to the new U.S. ambassador in Athens—who happens to have a personal acquaintance with the powerful Greek-American businessman.
Confused? You’re not the only one. This particular power game is still unfolding, and it will become even more interesting when Kimberly Guilfoyle lands at Eleftherios Venizelos Airport this coming June—with a specific agenda, clear instructions, and very few personal connections. And from what I hear, despite rumors to the contrary, she remains quite reserved.
Catsimatidis is her only true Greek friend. And by extension, his friends will be her friends as well. If you catch my drift…
Source: powergame.gr
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
