The funeral of Elizabeth II drew the eyes of millions around the globe.
It was a moment in history that brought together some of the world's most important figures, including US president Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden along with France’s president Emmanuel Macron and India’s president Droupadi Murmu. Jacinda Ardern (prime minister of New Zealand), Anthony Albanese, (Australian prime minister), Jair Bolsonaro (Brazil’s president), Sergio Mattarell (Italy’s president) and Frank-Walter Steinmeier (president of Germany) also attended.
Just as interesting as those who were present is those who were not invited to the funeral, which marked the first time since 1760 that a monarch's funeral has been held at Westminster Abbey. Several world leaders have been snubbed, generally because their country's actions have made them a pariah in the international community. Here's who did not attend:
Read more : The Queen's funeral plans: The full hour-by-hour timetable of what will happen
Trump and Obama
It is important to note that though these former USA president have not been invited this was not an oversight or deliberate snub. The Daily Beast reported that UK has said that only current heads of state and their spouses or partners would be invited as opposed to letting each country send a delegation featuring members of their own choosing.
It is understood that both Obama and Trump were to attend a memorial service to Her Majesty in Washington DC.
Vladimir Putin
The Russian dictator was quick to congratulate King Charles when he was proclaimed King. However, the unprovoked war of aggression in Ukraine has not only alienated his nation but also himself. There was no way that Putin was ever going to be invited to the funeral.
Alexander Lukashenko
The president of Belarus is a big supporter of Putin and his brutal war in Ukraine. His support has left him isolated but he has a long history of controversy. He has previously said that Hitler was a role model for his presidential system in Belarus. He has also been reported to have made several homophobic and anti semitic comments along with accusations of corruption.
Myanmar
There were no representatives from Myanmar invited to the ceremony. This is following a coup in 2021.
Afghanistan
Following the the Taliban's seizure of control in Afghanistan there has been widespread condemnation of attacks on women and minority rights. There will be no representative from Afghanistan at the funeral.
Syria and Venezuela
Due to the fact that the UK doesn't have diplomatic relations with either country, no representatives have been invited to the funeral.
Iran, North Korea and Nicaragua head's of state
Some countries have been afforded an invitation to send representatives to the funeral. North Korea (DPRK) and Nicaragua are not allowed to send their head of state but can send representatives. There are currently rocky relations between the UK and these countries.
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