European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen will not attend Donald Trump’s inauguration in Washington on January 20. However, she hopes to establish “early contacts” with the new administration, as stated by Brussels on Friday.
“There has been no invitation, and there are no plans to attend,” EU spokeswoman Paula Pinho explained. “We will actively seek early contacts with the new administration.”
Traditionally, foreign leaders do not receive invitations to attend the US president’s inauguration. Nevertheless, Trump reportedly invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend this time.
Recently, von der Leyen has battled severe pneumonia, which prevented her from attending Joe Biden’s inauguration four years ago.
The EU is anxiously watching the return of the unpredictable former reality TV star to the White House, especially during this critical time for Europe.
The incoming US leader has promised to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. European allies are eager to convince him not to impose unfavorable terms on the continent.
Moreover, they are working diligently to avoid the trade tariffs that Trump has suggested.
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On Tuesday, Trump ignited a political firestorm by refusing to dismiss the possibility of using military force to seize Greenland, Denmark’s autonomous territory.
On Thursday, von der Leyen asserted that the EU “will always protect our citizens and the integrity of our democracies and freedoms.”
She emphasized that the “US is one of our closest partners, and we are committed to strengthening the Transatlantic bond.”
