Trump's son will get married on an island in the Bahamas; president decides not to go
US President Donald Trump Jr.'s eldest son will marry socialite Bettina Anderson on a small island in the Bahamas this weekend, two people familiar with the plans told CNN.
A person who should not attend the intimate event? President Donald Trump himself.
The guest list is being kept small - on purpose, sources said. Only close family members and the couple's closest friends will attend the wedding, totaling less than 50 people.
This Friday, Trump confirmed that he will not attend the wedding, writing on social media: "While I would very much like to be with my son, Don Jr., and the newest member of the Trump family, his future wife, Bettina, government-related circumstances and my love for the United States of America do not allow me to do so."
"I think it's important to remain in Washington, D.C., at the White House, during this important time. Congratulations to Don and Bettina!" wrote Trump.
A day earlier, Trump had been notably vague about his plans when asked about the wedding by reporters in the Oval Office.
"He would like me to come, but it will just be a small private event, and I will try to attend," Trump told reporters.
"This is not a good time for me," he added. "Everything revolves around Iran and other things," he added.
US may need to attack Iran again, says Donald Trump | CNN 360º
One of the sources told CNN that Trump was expected not to attend, in part due to the couple's desire to have an extremely private ceremony.
Trump's public schedule does not indicate that he will be present. CNN has reached out to the White House and a representative for Trump Jr. for comment.
"This is an issue where I cannot win. If I show up, I will be massacred. If I don't show up, I will also be massacred," the president said on Thursday, referring to possible negative press coverage.
Trump Jr. and Anderson wanted to prevent wedding details from leaking to the media so the event would remain exclusive and private, the sources said. This would help allay any security concerns and allow guests to avoid the heavily guarded event attended by the president.
Trump Jr.'s brothers are expected to be in attendance, sources said.
The wedding will mark the second marriage for Trump Jr. He was previously married to Vanessa Trump for 12 years before their divorce in 2018.
Trump Jr. was engaged to Kimberly Guilfoyle, current US ambassador to Greece and ex-wife of California Governor Gavin Newsom, from 2020 to 2024.
Trump launches US$1 million "gold card" visa to live in the USA
Source: CNN