President-elect Donald Trump has invited world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, to his inauguration next month.
However, Xi has reportedly declined the invitation, according to CBS News sources. Despite this, other foreign leaders could still attend, making this a potentially historic first for U.S. inaugurations.
While foreign diplomats or ambassadors have traditionally attended U.S. inaugurations, heads of state have never been present, with security concerns and large crowds often cited as reasons.
If any foreign leaders do attend, it would mark a significant departure from this longstanding tradition.
Trump acknowledged his contemplation of inviting foreign dignitaries when he spoke at the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday, mentioning that some people have called the idea risky, but he’s willing to take chances.
Among the leaders invited, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a Trump ally, is still considering his attendance. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not been invited.
Trump’s approach to international relationships, including with controversial figures, has been central to his foreign policy throughout his political career.