Melania Trump releases statement after being left devastated by mother's death

She described Knavs as a “strong woman” who was “devoted” to her family.

Melania said: “It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Amalija.

“Amalija Knavs was a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity.

“She was entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law. We will miss her beyond measure and continue to honor and love her legacy.”

Knavs was reportedly being looked after by the ex-model when the former First Lady was not pictured in the Trump family’s Christmas photo at Mar-a-Lago.

The cause of death was not disclosed during Melania's statement.

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However, former President Donald Trump mentioned his mother-in-law’s ill health at an event in Florida earlier this month.

Following the news of her death, the 45th President paid tribute to Knavs.

He said: “This is a very sad night for the entire Trump family!

“Melania’s great and beautiful mother, Amalija, has just gone to a beautiful place in the sky.

“She was an incredible woman, and will be missed far beyond words!”

Trump also shared an image of himself alongside his mother-in-law.

The death of the former President's mother-in-law comes just two months after Trump's older sister Maryanne Trump Barry died at the age of 86.

Knavs, who was born in Austria before moving to Slovenia, worked at a textile factory and her husband Viktor was a car salesman.

The couple became US citizens in 2018 after living in America on green cards sponsored by their 53-year-old daughter.

The Knavs spent much of Trump’s premiership in New York but also lived in the upper floors of the White House.