VIDEO: Trump’s U.S. Ambassador to Croatia pick grilled in Senate

Nicole McGraw (Screenshot/foreign.senate.gov)

Nicole McGraw, the woman nominated by Donald Trump to become the next United States Ambassador to Croatia, recently appeared before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee as part of the confirmation process.

Although not a career diplomat, McGraw – a gallery owner and philanthropist from Florida with close ties to Trump – outlined her priorities in a five-minute statement, which included a strong focus on economic diplomacy, security, and strengthening ties between the US and Croatia through investment and cultural exchange.

McGraw made it clear that one of her main goals would be supporting the construction of the Southern Gas Interconnection pipeline between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina – a project currently being blocked by Bosnian Croat politician Dragan Čović, 24sata writes.

She underlined the pipeline’s importance not only for regional energy stability, but also as an opportunity for Croatia to become a major gas distributor in the Western Balkans, especially with its LNG terminal on the island of Krk.

During the hearing, Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen pressed McGraw on whether she would consider sanctions against Čović if he continued to block the pipeline project.

McGraw replied that, as she is not yet in office and does not have access to classified materials, she would review the matter and respond to the committee in writing.

The US sees the energy project as a way to reduce regional reliance on Russian gas and to promote American energy exports to the area.

According to McGraw, such projects also present chances for American companies to invest in Croatia’s infrastructure and modernisation.

In addition to energy, McGraw stated her commitment to working on improving security for US citizens in Croatia and deepening strategic cooperation.

She specifically mentioned Croatian ports, telecommunications, and energy as key areas of focus.

She also noted the importance of Croatia increasing its defence budget and further modernising its infrastructure, which she believes creates opportunities for stronger partnerships with American businesses.

Unofficial reports suggest McGraw could arrive in Zagreb as early as May or June.

You can watch the nomination hearing here.