Former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 84, is recovering in a Luxembourg hospital after suffering an injury during an official diplomatic trip. Pelosi was attending a ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, a major World War II battle that marked the strength and cooperation between the U.S. and its European allies.
According to her spokesperson, Ian Krager, Pelosi “sustained an injury during an official engagement” and is now receiving “excellent medical care” in Luxembourg. While details of the incident are still sparse, it has been reported that Pelosi fell while walking near a memorial site on Monday, potentially injuring her hip or leg.
Witnesses described the fall as unexpected but not severe, noting that Pelosi was helped up immediately by security and medical personnel. She was promptly transported to a nearby medical facility where she was evaluated. Although there has been no official word on the extent of her injuries, Pelosi’s aides have assured the public that she remains “alert, stable, and in good spirits.”
Representative Michael McCaul (R-Texas), who is leading the bipartisan delegation Pelosi is part of, expressed disappointment that she would not be able to continue with the planned events. He praised her resilience, stating, “We’re all disappointed that she can’t join the remainder of our events, but Speaker Pelosi is a strong woman, and I have no doubt she’ll recover quickly.”
The U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg is in close contact with local authorities and Pelosi’s medical team, ensuring she receives the support she needs. Pelosi’s office issued a brief statement expressing gratitude for the well-wishes she has received, noting that she “looks forward to returning home soon.”
Pelosi had been scheduled to participate in several key commemorations in Europe this week, including a wreath-laying ceremony to honor the American soldiers who fought in the Ardennes offensive during World War II. She was also slated to meet with European leaders to discuss issues such as transatlantic security, global democracy, and the challenges posed by authoritarian regimes.
Though Pelosi stepped down as Speaker of the House in 2023, she remains a major figure in U.S. politics and global diplomacy. Her presence at such events underscores her continued commitment to international cooperation and to honoring the legacy of American veterans. Pelosi, whose father was a congressman during World War II, has long been a vocal advocate for veterans and public service, often reflecting on her family’s legacy of duty.
In a recent statement, Pelosi called the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge a “powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who fought tyranny to preserve freedom.” She stressed that strengthening unity among democratic nations remains as essential today as it was during World War II.
Following the incident, politicians from both sides of the aisle have expressed concern for Pelosi’s health and well-being. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) called Pelosi “a beacon of strength and determination,” adding, “She works harder and travels further than anyone in public life. We are all hoping for her speedy recovery.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) also shared his support, stating, “I have worked with Speaker Pelosi for many years, and I wish her a quick and full recovery.”
Pelosi’s fall highlights the physical toll that public service can take on senior leaders, especially those like Pelosi who maintain a demanding schedule well into their 80s. Known for her tireless work ethic, Pelosi has continued to represent the U.S. on the global stage, despite her advanced age.
This is not the first time Pelosi’s health has attracted attention. In late 2022, she endured a personal crisis when her husband, Paul Pelosi, was attacked by an intruder in their San Francisco home. Despite the emotional trauma, she has continued her public duties with grace and resilience, citing her faith, family, and sense of duty as sources of strength.
Political analysts have suggested that this incident will not slow Pelosi down for long. “She’s always bounced back from adversity,” said political analyst Elise Rodriguez. “Speaker Pelosi is a formidable force in American politics, and I’m sure this won’t keep her down for long.”
At the time of her fall, Pelosi’s delegation was visiting various memorial sites across Belgium, Luxembourg, and France, and meeting with local officials to honor American veterans. The delegation continued their visits after the incident, holding a moment of silence in Pelosi’s honor during the following day’s ceremony.
European leaders have also reached out with messages of support. Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden expressed his well-wishes, describing Pelosi as “a remarkable leader and friend of Europe.” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg echoed those sentiments, calling Pelosi “a tireless advocate for democratic values and international cooperation.”
As of Tuesday morning, hospital officials stated that Pelosi’s condition is “comfortable and improving.” Doctors are expected to re-evaluate her health in the coming days to determine whether she is fit to travel back to the United States. Aides have indicated that Pelosi plans to return home as soon as her doctors approve.
Pelosi’s office has refrained from commenting on whether surgery or long-term rehabilitation will be required, noting only that she is “receiving the best care possible and remains optimistic.”
Messages of support have flooded her office, with constituents in her home district of San Francisco leaving flowers and notes of encouragement. “Speaker Pelosi has represented us for so long,” said one supporter. “We just want her to be healthy and back with us soon.”
While this trip did not unfold as planned, Pelosi’s colleagues have underscored her ongoing dedication to public service. Rep. McCaul emphasized, “At 84, she’s still working, still representing, still honoring history. That’s who she is — unshakable.”
As Pelosi continues to recover in Luxembourg, her office assures the public that she remains engaged with her team in Washington, monitoring legislative issues from abroad. For now, the focus is on her health, with aides reporting that she is eager to return to her work once she is able.