US: Donald Trump announces death of first wife, Ivana

Former US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday the death of his first wife, Ivana Trump.

The two married in 1977 and divorced in 1992. 

"I am very saddened to inform all of those that loved her, of which there are many, that Ivana Trump has passed away at her home in New York City,'' Trump posted on his Truth Social social media network.

"She was a wonderful, beautiful, and amazing woman, who led a great and inspirational life. Her pride and joy were her three children, Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric. She was so proud of them, as we were all so proud of her. Rest In Peace, Ivana!''

No cause of death has been provided but sources told AP news agency that police are trying to determine whether Ivana Trump fell down the stairs. Authorities believe her death was accidental.

'Fled communism and embraced the US'

Ivana Trump was not only the former president's first wife but also the mother of his three oldest children. She is credited with helping her husband build some of his signature buildings, including Trump Tower in New York City.

"She fled from communism and embraced this country,'' her three children Donald Jr, Eric and Ivanka Trump wrote in a statement, referencing her birth and upbringing in the former Czechoslovakia.

"She taught her children about grit and toughness, compassion and determination. She will be dearly missed by her mother, her three children and ten grandchildren,'' the statement added.

Power couple in the 80s

During their marriage, the Trumps were one of New York's highest-profile couples, with great celebrity power. They were open with an extravagant lifestyle that symbolized the flashy excesses of the 1980s.

As Donald Trump's business empire grew, Ivana Trump took on number of key roles in the business.

But the marriage ended, fueled by rumors that Donald Trump was having an affair with actress Marla Maples, whom he ultimately married following the divorce.

jcg/fb, wd (AP, Reuters)