Melania Trump breaks silence after 'vanishing' as she unveils 'path forward'

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Melania Trump has finally broken her silence after the violent Washington riots that could see her husband removed from office early.

The First Lady had been silent for some weeks, but has today posted a statement to Twitter unveiling a "path forward" for the country.

"Like all of you, I have reflected on the past year and how the invisible enemy, Covid-19, swept across our beautiful country," her statement begins.

"All Nations have experienced the loss of loved ones, economic pain, and the negative impacts of isolation."

Mrs Trump then goes on to discuss the recent storming of the Capitol by armed supporters of her husband, saying her "heart goes out" to the families of those who lost their lives.

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"I am disappointed and disheartened with what happened last week," she said.

"I find it shameful that surrounding these tragic events there has been salacious gossip, unwarranted personal attacks, and false misleading accusations on me – from people who are looking to be relevant and have an agenda.

"This time is solely about healing our country and its citizens. It should not be used for personal gain.

"Our Nation must heal in a civil manner. Make no mistake about it, I absolutely condemn the violence that has occurred on our Nation's Capitol. Violence is never acceptable."

Mrs Trump said she is "proud of our freedom to express our viewpoints without persecution" and calls on US citizens to "look at things from all perspectives".

"I implore people to stop the violence, never make assumptions based on the color of a person's skin or use differing political ideologies as a basis for aggression and viciousness. We must listen to one another, focus on what unites us, and rise above what divides us.

"It is inspiring to see that so many have found a passion and enthusiasm in participating in an election, but we must not allow that passion to turn to violence. Our path forward is to come together, find our commonalities, and be the kind and strong people that I know we are."

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The statement ends: "It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve as your First Lady.

"I want to thank the millions of Americans who supported my husband and me over the past 4 years and shown the incredible impact of the American spirit. I am grateful to you all for letting me serve you on platforms which are dear to me.

"Most importantly, I ask for healing, grace, understanding, and peace for our great Nation. Every day let us remember that we are one Nation under God. God bless you all and God bless the United States of America.

"Sincerely, Melania Trump."

Mrs Trump is scheduled to leave the White House on January 20 along with her husband, President Donald Trump.

However the family is facing removal before the official end of Trump's term as Senators consider impeaching him for a second time.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says they would proceed with impeachment if Vice President Mike Pence does not invoke the 25th Amendment and remove Trump from office.

Five people died after the violent storming of the Capitol building last week, which happened after President Trump encouraged his supporters to march there in a show of support.

He faced more criticism after refusing to condemn their behaviour and continuing to insist the 2020 election was stolen from him.

President Trump has now been permanently banned from Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and a host of other social media apps after being accused of "inciting violence" by stoking his fans' outrage.