President Donald Trump announced that he will not travel to the World Trade Center for the 25th‑anniversary ceremony of the September 11 terrorist attacks. Instead, the president will deliver his remarks from the Pentagon, the site of the other 9/11 attack, next month.

Sources briefed on the plan said the decision stems from the National September 11 Memorial and Museum’s longstanding policy—enforced since 2012—of prohibiting politicians from speaking at the ground‑zero ceremony in order to remain nonpartisan. Trump, a native New Yorker, expressed a desire to speak, prompting his team to shift the venue.

Vice President JD Vance will represent the administration at the World Trade Center ceremony, joining other officials and families of victims. A White House spokesperson noted that, as a proud New Yorker, President Trump has long reflected on the horror of that day and will use his Pentagon address to honor the fallen, their families, and the first responders who risked their lives.

Historical context and upcoming travel

Trump has previously spoken at the Pentagon on 9/11, most recently last year, where he also referenced the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and announced a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom for Kirk. The president’s remarks are expected to reiterate the nation’s commitment to never forget the tragedy.

After the Pentagon address, President Trump is scheduled to travel to Ireland for a golf outing at Doonbeg, coinciding with the Irish Open. He will depart on September 12, the day after the anniversary.

Reactions

Critics note the shift away from the traditional New York ceremony, but administration officials argue the Pentagon speech allows the president to speak directly to the nation while respecting the memorial’s nonpartisan stance. The move underscores the administration’s focus on honoring military service and national security.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.