Ursula von der Leyen Not Invited to Trump’s Inauguration – Xi Jinping Included
Xi Jinping is on the guest list for Trump’s inauguration, but Ursula von der Leyen has yet to receive an invitation
Donald Trump’s inauguration as President of the United States on January 20, 2025, is already stirring diplomatic controversy. Among the international guests invited are China’s President Xi Jinping, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. However, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has not yet received an official invitation.
The European Commission’s Response
According to European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho, Ursula von der Leyen has no plans to attend Trump’s inauguration as she has not been formally invited. Should an invitation arrive, the situation will be re-evaluated, Pinho stated.
This move, or the potential absence of an invitation, reflects the historically complex relationship between Trump and European institutions. During his first presidency, Trump openly criticized the European Union over trade issues and pressured NATO members to increase their financial contributions. Despite these tensions, Von der Leyen expressed her desire for constructive cooperation with the new administration after Trump’s victory.
The Surprise Inclusion of China
The inclusion of Xi Jinping on the guest list has raised eyebrows, especially considering the strained relations between the United States and China in recent years. While the Chinese president has been invited, it is unlikely he will attend in person, with a high-ranking representative expected instead. Trump’s gesture could be interpreted as an attempt to foster dialogue or simply as a strategic move.
Traditions and Changes
It is rare for foreign leaders to attend U.S. presidential inaugurations in person due to security concerns and tradition. Typically, diplomatic representatives are sent. However, the decision to exclude Von der Leyen could signal an initial distancing between the Trump administration and the European Union.
Diplomatic Impacts
Von der Leyen’s absence from the inauguration may mark the beginning of a complex diplomatic relationship between the United States and the European Union. While leaders such as Xi Jinping and Jair Bolsonaro strengthen ties with the U.S. government, the European Union might need to redefine its approach to dialogue with the Trump administration.
Trump’s inauguration and the guest list choices are just the start of a new chapter in international relations, and the coming months will reveal how these events shape the global stage.
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