Charles Kushner, the billionaire real estate developer and influential patriarch of one of America’s most politically connected families, was formally welcomed to Monaco on Monday 27th October as the new United States Ambassador to the Principality. In a ceremony at the Prince’s Palace, Kushner presented his credentials to Prince Albert II, marking the start of a high-profile diplomatic chapter for a figure better known for his presence in Manhattan boardrooms and behind-the-scenes politics.
Flanked by Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Monaco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, and received earlier in the day by Minister of State Christophe Mirmand, Kushner presented his credentials to Prince Albert II in a protocol that sealed his dual appointment — not only to Monaco, but also to the French Republic.
The ceremony was followed by a luncheon hosted by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, signalling the Principality’s recognition of Kushner’s arrival and the continuation of strong transatlantic ties.
A powerful presence behind the scenes — and now centre stage
For many in Monaco and beyond, the name Charles Kushner may carry as much weight for who he is as for who he raised. A billionaire real estate developer, he is the founder of Kushner Companies, one of the most recognisable family-run property firms in New York City. But globally, he is best known as the father of Jared Kushner, senior advisor and son-in-law to President Donald J. Trump, who returned to the White House in January 2025 for a second term.
Kushner’s influence in American political and business circles is well-established — though not without controversy. In 2005, he was convicted on charges including tax evasion and witness tampering, serving a brief prison sentence before being pardoned by President Trump in December 2020. That pardon reignited public debate in the US, with critics calling it an example of political favouritism, while supporters saw it as the closing of a chapter long behind him.
Now, at 71, Kushner takes on a new public role — representing the United States in one of Europe’s most exclusive and strategically symbolic nations.
A unique diplomatic post, at the crossroads of power and prestige
The Monaco ambassadorship, though small in geographic scope, holds cultural and economic significance. From luxury and finance to sustainability and soft diplomacy, Monaco offers a platform for influence well beyond its borders. The fact that this role has been entrusted to a figure like Charles Kushner is both a nod to his status and a reflection of the close-knit network of American political power.
Educated at New York University (BA and MBA) and holding a Doctor of Law from Hofstra University, Kushner has also received honorary doctorates from Yeshiva University and Touro College. Beyond business, he has served on the United States Holocaust Memorial Council and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and is known for his philanthropic contributions, particularly within the Jewish-American community.
The Kushner brand abroad
As Ambassador to Monaco — and simultaneously to France — Kushner enters European diplomacy as both a political appointee and a global brand name. His family’s continued proximity to the Trump administration, through Jared’s senior advisory role, ensures that Charles Kushner’s actions abroad will carry weight back in Washington.
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Photo: Surrounding Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene: Charles Kushner, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States to Monaco, and his wife Seryl Kushner; Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation; and Christophe Mirmand, Minister of State. Credit: Manuel Vitali, Government Communications Department