Scandal Grows Over US Envoy and Balkan Energy Deals

The US State Department warned envoy Paolo Zampolli about his business deals in the Balkans. Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau called these deals unauthorized and possibly illegal. However, officials did not launch any formal investigation. Zampolli continued his work and traveled to Banja Luka. There, he met with the prime minister of Republika Srpska to discuss major energy projects, including hydropower plants.

Politico recently published internal emails about the matter. Soon after, the US government removed Zampolli from his envoy role. Zampolli denied any wrongdoing. He claimed that Donald Trump encouraged his private business plans. Zampolli then announced that he would return to private business full time.

Other figures close to Trump also have ties to Republika Srpska. A lobbying firm tied to Katie Wiles received monthly payments from the Serb entity. Trump campaign manager Chris LaCivita also earned large sums through a law firm hired by Republika Srpska. At the same time, the US Treasury lifted sanctions on the entity's leader right after he met with the Russian foreign minister.

Other US diplomats also faced scrutiny over Balkan energy projects. Kimberly Guilfoyle recently stepped down as US ambassador to Greece after disputes over natural gas corridors. Records show that Zampolli had past ties to Russian interests as well. Critics argue that private energy deals and Russian influence now drive American foreign policy in the region.