Melania Ditches Christmas With Trump

Melania Trump was notably absent from a recent family Christmas photo, capturing former President Donald Trump and three of their children, as she stood by her ailing mother Amalija Knavs in the hospital. The snapshot was taken during the holiday season at the Mar-a-Lago estate in West Palm Beach, Florida, and was shared on Instagram by Kimberly Guilfoyle, fiancée to Donald Trump Jr.

In the photo, a smiling Donald Trump, 77, is surrounded by most of his children, including 17-year-old Barron, Melania’s son. Melania’s father, Viktor Knavs, also joined the family portrait. A source close to Mrs. Trump revealed to Fox News Digital that Melania, known for her unwavering devotion to family, spent Christmas with her mother due to her health condition.

The former first lady’s spokesperson informed The Post that Melania was tending to a family matter at the time the picture was taken, without specifying details. Notably absent were Eric Trump and his wife Lara, while the rest of the family, including Ivanka Trump and her family, Don Jr., and Tiffany Trump with her husband Michael Boulos, were present.

Melania’s absence from the photo followed reports from Page Six sources, indicating her intention to increase public appearances in 2024 as her husband considers another White House bid. Insiders at Mar-a-Lago suggested an agreement between the couple for Melania to engage in top-tier diplomatic events in the lead-up to the potential presidential campaign. The source noted Melania’s recognition of her opportunity to make historical contributions as a first lady and her enhanced readiness for such a role the second time around.

Recent weeks have seen Melania participating in significant events, including joining all living first ladies at the Rosalynn Carter memorial service in Atlanta and delivering rare public remarks at a citizens’ naturalization ceremony at the National Archives in Washington.