Former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 84, has been hospitalized in Luxembourg after sustaining an injury while attending an official diplomatic event, as confirmed by her office. Pelosi, a prominent Democratic leader, was in Europe as part of a bipartisan congressional delegation marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge — a pivotal World War II battle that symbolizes the enduring bond and sacrifices between the U.S. and its European allies.
Pelosi’s spokesperson, Ian Krager, clarified that she “sustained an injury during an official engagement and is currently receiving excellent medical care from doctors and specialists in Luxembourg.” Although the exact details of the injury remain unclear, sources familiar with the situation indicated that Pelosi may have tripped and fallen during a ceremony on Monday, potentially injuring her hip or leg.
Witnesses described the incident as sudden but not severe. One attendee explained, “She was walking near the memorial area and seemed to lose her footing.” Immediately, security and medical staff on-site helped her to her feet. After the fall, Pelosi was quickly transported to a nearby medical facility for assessment and treatment. While doctors have yet to disclose the extent of her injury, her aides have reassured the public that she remains “alert, stable, and in good spirits.”
The chair of the congressional delegation, Representative Michael McCaul (R-Texas), expressed regret that Pelosi would not be able to continue the trip but praised her strength and resilience. “We’re all disappointed she can’t join the remainder of our events,” McCaul wrote on social media. “Speaker Pelosi is a tough woman, and I have no doubt she’ll be back on her feet in no time.”
The U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg has confirmed that embassy staff are in close communication with local authorities and Pelosi’s medical team to ensure that she receives the best possible care and support during her recovery. Her office later issued a statement saying that Pelosi “looks forward to returning home soon and deeply appreciates the outpouring of concern and kind messages from friends, colleagues, and constituents.”
Pelosi had been scheduled to deliver remarks at several European commemorations throughout the week, including a wreath-laying ceremony to honor American soldiers who fought in the Ardennes offensive during World War II. Additionally, she had planned meetings with European Parliament leaders to discuss continued transatlantic cooperation, global security challenges, and democratic resilience in the face of rising authoritarianism.
Even after stepping down as Speaker of the House in 2023, Pelosi has remained a key figure in international diplomacy, continuing to lead U.S. congressional delegations abroad. Her presence in Luxembourg symbolized her ongoing role as one of the most experienced and senior stateswomen in American politics. Her commitment to public service is seen in her active participation in high-level discussions and commemorative events, demonstrating her lifelong dedication to international cooperation.
Pelosi, the daughter of a World War II-era congressman, has long spoken about her admiration for veterans and her family’s legacy of public service. Ahead of the anniversary event, she remarked that the Battle of the Bulge serves as “a solemn reminder of the courage of those who fought tyranny and defended freedom at unimaginable cost,” and emphasized that the unity between democratic nations remains as vital now as it was eight decades ago.
Following the incident, colleagues from both political parties expressed their well-wishes. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) described Pelosi as “a model of grace and grit,” and added, “No one works harder or travels further in service to this country. We are praying for her speedy recovery.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also shared his support, stating, “Speaker Pelosi and I have served a long time in public life together. I wish her a swift and full recovery.”
This accident highlights the physical demands faced by senior political figures, particularly those who, like Pelosi, continue to maintain a rigorous schedule well into their later years. Despite her age, Pelosi has been known for her tireless work ethic, frequently traveling abroad and attending long events, often requiring stamina and focus, especially when engaged in diplomatic efforts.
This is not the first time Pelosi’s health has attracted public attention. In late 2022, she endured a traumatic personal experience when her husband, Paul Pelosi, was attacked in their San Francisco home by an intruder. Despite this, Pelosi has continued to appear publicly, displaying remarkable resilience, often attributing her strength to “faith, family, and duty.”
Political analysts believe this incident is unlikely to slow Pelosi down for long. Washington correspondent Elise Rodriguez commented, “Pelosi has always bounced back. She’s one of the most determined figures in modern American politics — retirement never really meant retreat for her.”
As of the time of the fall, Pelosi’s delegation had been visiting memorial sites across Belgium, Luxembourg, and France, honoring American veterans. Following the fall, the group continued their tour, dedicating a moment of silence in Pelosi’s honor at the following day’s ceremony.
European leaders have also expressed concern for Pelosi’s well-being. Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden extended his wishes for a “rapid recovery for a remarkable leader and friend of Europe.” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also offered his support, calling Pelosi “a tireless advocate for the democratic values our alliance stands for.”
As of Tuesday morning, hospital officials have reported that Pelosi’s condition is “comfortable and improving.” Her doctors plan to re-evaluate her in the coming days to determine if she is fit to travel back to the United States. Aides have indicated that she intends to return home as soon as her doctors allow.
Her office has refrained from commenting on speculation regarding the need for surgery or long-term rehabilitation, focusing on her current recovery and the fact that she is receiving excellent care.
Meanwhile, Pelosi continues to receive an outpouring of well-wishes. Constituents in San Francisco have left flowers and notes at her district office, expressing their gratitude for her decades of service. “She’s been our voice for so long,” said one supporter. “We just want her healthy and home.”
While this trip did not conclude as planned, colleagues have emphasized that it is a testament to Pelosi’s unwavering commitment to public service. Rep. McCaul summed up, saying, “Even at eighty-four, she is out there working, representing, honoring history. That’s who she is — unshakable.”
As Pelosi rests and recovers in Luxembourg, her office assures that she remains in close contact with her team in Washington and is monitoring ongoing legislative matters from abroad. For now, her focus remains on her recovery, with reports indicating that she is eager to return to her work once her health permits.