Xi Jinping Rejects Donald Trump’s Invitation to Historic Presidential Inauguration

According to CBS News, Trump extended the invite shortly after his 2024 election victory in hopes of creating a landmark moment. While no foreign head of state has ever attended a U.S. presidential inauguration, Trump aimed to break tradition by also inviting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele.

Xi’s refusal, which has yet to be publicly explained, is a blow to Trump’s vision of turning the inauguration into a global spectacle. Speaking to Fox News, Trump’s spokeswoman, Karoline Leavitt, framed the gesture as an attempt to foster open dialogue with both allies and geopolitical competitors.

“This highlights President Trump’s willingness to engage with leaders from countries that are not only allies but also adversaries and competitors,” Leavitt stated on Thursday.

Despite Trump’s assertions of a strong rapport with Xi Jinping, tensions loom over U.S.-China relations. Trump’s campaign rhetoric included promises of punitive tariffs on Chinese imports, fueling fears of a potential trade war as he prepares to assume office.

In response, reports suggest that China is considering preemptive tariffs to push Trump to the negotiating table. This brewing economic standoff could define the early days of his presidency, overshadowing efforts to reset ties with Beijing.