Donald Trump has not invited Ursula von der Leyen to his inauguration. (Image: GETTY)
has snubbed ; her official spokesman has hinted, with an admission, that the President has had no contact with since an initial congratulatory phone call.
Ms von der Leyen, 66, is currently recovering from severe pneumonia, but even if the former German defence minister were completely healthy, her chances of attending the prestigious event in Washington would appear to be slim.
Questioned on the subject of the EU’s relationship with the US on Friday, her official spokeswoman Paula Pinto pointed to past remarks by both Ms von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa emphasising their eagerness to work with the billionaire New Yorker.
However, pressed about the response they had received, Ms Pinto continued: “Shortly after the elections in the US, there was a call between President von der Leyen and President-elect Trump.
“And ever since, there were no such contacts.”
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Mr Trump’s relationship with Ursula von der Leyen has been marked by both cooperation and tension.
During his first term as US President, Trump frequently criticised NATO allies for inadequate defence spending, labelling the alliance “obsolete” in 2017.
Von der Leyen, then Germany’s Defence Minister, responded by saying she was “aghast” and “deeply concerned” by such remarks, underscoring her commitment to the alliance.
In January 2020, as President of the European Commission, von der Leyen met with Trump to discuss trade relations.
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I warmly congratulate Donald J. Trump.The EU and the US are more than just allies.We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens.So let’s work together on a strong transatlantic agenda that keeps delivering for them.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen)
Mr Trump acknowledged her reputation as a “very tough negotiator,” signalling a willingness to engage in dialogue. Ms von der Leyen stressed the longstanding friendship between American and European citizens, expressing optimism about future negotiations.
After Mr Trump’s re-election in November 2024, Ms von der Leyen congratulated him, saying: “I warmly congratulate Donald J. Trump on his election as the 47th President of the United States of America. I look forward to working with him to deepen the transatlantic partnership.”
Amid concerns about Mr Trump cutting military support for , Mr Costa advised against speculating on Trump’s future actions, advocating for early engagement to manage differences and build trust.
It is customary for the European Commission President to be represented by the EU Ambassador to the United States rather than in person at such events. Jean-Claude Juncker did not attend Mr Trump’s first inauguration.
Mr Trump will be sworn in for his second term on January 20.