Donald Trump, eager to reshape his presidential inauguration in 2025, is making personalized efforts to invite a series of global leaders to the event. Aiming to turn the ceremony into a true international celebration, Trump is extending invitations to some of the top names in global politics, including heads of state from countries with which the United States has complicated or even adversarial relations, as well as traditional allies who share his worldview. Among the confirmed invitees are prominent figures such as Xi Jinping, President of China, Nayib Bukele, President of El Salvador, Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy, and Javier Milei, President of Argentina.
The invitation to Xi Jinping, President of China, is particularly notable. Given the recent tensions between the United States and China, a personal invitation from Trump to Xi is a rare diplomatic gesture, which many interpret as an attempt to establish a communication channel with one of the U.S.’s greatest geopolitical rivals. The relationship between the two countries has been marked by trade disputes, security issues, and fierce competition for global influence. However, Trump appears willing to reverse the diplomatic distancing and open space for direct dialogue with Beijing, something seen as a pragmatic strategy. Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s spokesperson, was emphatic in stating that this invitation reflects the president-elect’s willingness to maintain an open line of communication with countries, not only allies but also adversaries.
Although the invitation was made directly to Xi, two sources close to the Chinese government indicated that the president will not attend the inauguration in person, but a delegation of high-ranking Chinese officials will be sent to represent the country. This shows that, despite some leaders’ reluctance to attend, Trump’s gesture is a sign of openness and an attempt to build bridges with powerful nations, even those with which the U.S. maintains a relationship of conflict or competition.
Other notable invitees include Nayib Bukele, the President of El Salvador, known for his populist and authoritarian style. Bukele has generated controversy both within his country and internationally, especially regarding his stance on democracy and human rights. However, he is seen as a strategic ally of Trump, with both sharing a pragmatic approach to global politics. The invitation to Bukele reflects Trump’s willingness to extend his network of alliances with leaders who do not necessarily follow traditional diplomatic conventions but share a common vision on governance and security issues.
Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy, is another figure politically aligned with Trump. Meloni, one of the most prominent leaders of the European far-right, has been a controversial figure both in her country and internationally. She has distanced herself from the European Union on several issues and adopted firm stances on immigration, security, and Italy’s role in the world. Meloni’s presence at Trump’s inauguration would reflect the strengthening of relations between the two leaders, who share a conservative vision of government. Although Italy is a traditional U.S. ally, Meloni has created tension with some sectors of U.S. politics due to her more aggressive policies on immigration and her authoritarian government.
Javier Milei, President of Argentina, is also on the guest list. Elected with a neoliberal discourse and criticisms of the left, Milei has been a controversial figure, not only in his country but also in his relationship with the United States. His stance on the economy, the market, and foreign policy reflects a departure from the traditional left-wing policies that dominated Argentina for decades. By inviting Milei, Trump signals his intention to establish a closer relationship with Latin American leaders who share his vision of a free market and a critical stance toward socialism. Milei’s presence at Trump’s inauguration would reinforce the image of an alliance between conservative and right-wing leaders at a time of political reconfiguration in Latin America.
The way invitations are being sent also reflects Trump’s more informal style. Instead of following the traditional protocol of formal invitations, Trump’s team has opted for a more casual approach, often making invitations by phone and through informal conversations, reflecting Trump’s personal and direct approach. Some invitations have been made through secret channels, adding an element of surprise and flexibility to how leaders are approached. For those leaders with whom Trump does not have direct contact, his team has sent formal invitations, yet still with a sense of informality in their approach to world relations.
Although the guest list has not been fully revealed, Trump’s choices so far show his desire to reshape American diplomacy. He wants his inauguration to be not just an internal political event, but a demonstration of the United States’ global reach under his leadership. Trump aims to turn the inauguration into a “global stage,” where leaders from all over the world can gather to discuss international issues and strengthen their alliances with the United States.
This vision of Trump contrasts with the traditional approach to inauguration ceremonies, where invitations are typically sent by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) and the State Department, focusing mainly on diplomats and close allies. Traditionally, international visits by heads of state to Washington for an inauguration are rare, and elected presidents usually send formal invitations through established diplomatic channels. However, Trump is breaking with this protocol, which presents challenges not only in terms of security but also in logistical coordination for the event.
The security of all the leaders present will be a central concern for the U.S. Secret Service, which will have the task of protecting both the president-elect and a series of other international dignitaries. The U.S. Capitol Police will also have to handle the protection of leaders from various spheres, including the incumbent president, Joe Biden, and other senior government officials. Trump, for his part, has already shown some enthusiasm for the global impact of his inauguration, and such an event could serve as a way to bolster his international image and consolidate his position as a global leader.
Although Xi Jinping’s attendance has not been confirmed, the invitation extended to the Chinese president shows Trump’s willingness to strengthen relations with major international powers, whether through direct dialogue or through their delegations. The invitation to leaders such as Bukele, Meloni, and Milei also demonstrates Trump’s strategy of building a network of global allies who share his conservative ideologies and could help him shape the future of international politics.
For Trump, his inauguration will not only be a celebration of his return to power but also a symbol of a new era of global leadership. He intends to use the ceremony as a starting point to reinforce his influence on the global stage and expand his alliances with figures who, despite not following traditional diplomatic conventions, share his worldview.
