Melania Trump's mother Amalija Knavs dies at 78

Former US First Lady Melania Trump has "with deep sadness" announced the death of her mother, Amalija Knavs, at the age of 78.

"Amalija Knavs was a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity," she said.

The cause of death was not disclosed in the brief statement on X, formerly Twitter.

Donald Trump mentioned this month at an event in Florida that his Slovenian-born mother-in-law was "very ill".

Ms Trump said in her statement on Tuesday night: "She was entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law.

"We will miss her beyond measure and continue to honor and love her legacy."

Mrs Knavs and her husband, Viktor, became US citizens in 2018 after living in the US on green cards sponsored by Mrs Trump.