Donald Trump is working to transform his upcoming inauguration into a global event by personally extending invitations to several foreign leaders, including those from nations that have recently clashed with the United States.
Among the invitees is Chinese President Xi Jinping, marking an unusual outreach to the leader of one of America’s key geopolitical rivals. While Xi is not expected to attend, a delegation of senior Chinese officials is anticipated to represent China.
Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated that the invitations demonstrate Trump’s efforts to foster dialogue not just with allies but also with adversaries.
Other leaders invited include El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Argentine President Javier Milei, all of whom share close ties with Trump but have drawn controversy for their far-right politics and authoritarian tendencies.
The invitations, often extended informally through phone calls or back channels, underscore Trump’s ambition to reestablish relationships with global leaders after his political resurgence. He has also dictated written invitations for some leaders, according to sources. However, the unconventional approach has left Trump’s team struggling to track all the invitees, posing logistical and security challenges for U.S. authorities.
While it’s rare for heads of state to attend U.S. inaugurations, Trump’s outreach signals his intention to make his swearing-in a high-profile event. His efforts reflect a broader strategy to reengage with the global stage, as seen in his recent interactions with leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Trump has emphasized his good relationships with controversial figures like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin, although he declined to confirm recent communications with Putin. Despite his outreach, it remains unclear which leaders will accept Trump’s invitations, including Bukele, whose office has confirmed receipt of the invite.
The inauguration poses significant security challenges, given the high-profile attendees, including members of Congress, the Supreme Court, outgoing President Joe Biden, and past presidents. Trump’s team is also coordinating with the U.S. Secret Service and Capitol Police to ensure safety.
Trump’s vision for the inauguration reflects his broader diplomatic approach, combining spectacle with an effort to reposition the United States on the global stage during his second term.
