Trump Breaks Diplomatic Norms with Invitation to Xi Jinping for Inauguration
In a bold diplomatic move, President-elect Donald Trump has extended invitations to Chinese President Xi Jinping and several other global leaders to attend his inauguration next month. While the gesture signals an unprecedented approach to international relations, experts widely doubt that Xi will be present.
Unanswered Invitations Spark Debate
Trump spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Fox News that Xi’s response remains uncertain, describing it as “to be determined.” Leavitt emphasized the invitation as an extension of Trump’s effort to establish dialogue, even with countries that pose significant geopolitical challenges to the United States.
“This outreach demonstrates President Trump’s commitment to fostering open communication, not only with allies but also with strategic competitors,” Leavitt explained. However, she did not specify other world leaders who received invitations.
Experts Skeptical of Xi’s Participation
Analysts have expressed doubt over the likelihood of Xi attending. The prospect of a Chinese leader participating in a U.S. presidential inauguration would break with diplomatic precedent.
“Historically, heads of state do not attend U.S. inaugurations—this seems more like political theater than practical diplomacy,” commented Scott Kennedy, a senior fellow on China policy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Diplomatic dynamics aside, Russia’s Kremlin announced it had not received an invitation to the January 20 event.
Trade and Taiwan: Core Issues at Play
The invitation comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing. Trump has pledged stricter tariffs on Chinese imports and criticized China’s role in fentanyl trafficking. Additionally, Taiwan’s inclusion—or exclusion—from the event could significantly shape U.S.-China relations.
Xi recently signaled Beijing’s interest in continued dialogue with Washington. In a letter read at a U.S.-China Business Council event, he wrote, “We should prioritize dialogue and cooperation over confrontation.” Despite this, analysts suggest China might opt to send a lower-level representative to the inauguration.
Meanwhile, sources indicate that Taiwanese officials have engaged with members of Trump’s transition team, heightening speculation over Taiwan’s role in his administration’s policies.
A New Diplomatic Playbook
Whether Xi accepts the invitation or not, the move underscores Trump’s unorthodox approach to foreign relations, setting the tone for his presidency.
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