Melania, sounding like a Russian spy in a James Bond Movie 'My fellow Americans...' thanked Americans for the 'Greatest honour of my life', and made no mention of the incoming Joe Biden administration.

She urged people to chose "peace over violence" just two days ahead of Mr Biden's inauguration, and called on every American "to be an ambassador" of her youth wellbeing initiative, Be Best.

First lady calls for unity in final message

As the Trumps prepare to leave the White House, this may be the final time we hear from Melania as first lady.

"The past four years have been unforgettable," she said.

"As Donald and I conclude our time in the White House, I think of all of the people I have taken home in my heart, and their incredible stories of love, patriotism and determination."

The first lady also encouraged Americans to use "caution and common sense" to protect others against COVID-19, and to put their differences aside.

"I ask every American to be an ambassador of Be Best, to focus on what unites us, to rise above what divides us, to always choose love over hatred, peace over violence and others before yourself," she said.

"Together as one national family we can continue to be the light of hope for future generations and carry on America's legacy of rising our nation to greater heights through our spirit of courage, goodness and faith."

She urged people to be passionate, but stated that 'Violence is never the answer and will never be justified'.

"It is our duty as adults and parents to ensure the children had the best opportunities to lead fulfilling and healthy lives," she said.

"The passion for helping children succeed has driven my policy initiatives as first lady. I launched Be Best to ensure that we as Americans are doing all we can to take care of the next generation.

"No words can express the depth of my gratitude for the privilege of having served as your first lady.

"To all the people of this country, you will be in my heart forever. Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America."

Ms Trump called out for not meeting with Jill Biden

Ms Trump has also bucked tradition by not inviting the incoming first lady, Dr Biden, to tour the White House before her husband takes office.

CNN reported that she is the first modern first lady to not take her successor "for a walk-through of the private living quarters on the second and third floors".

Former first lady Michelle Obama met with Ms Trump well ahead of her Mr Trump's 2017 inauguration.

The pair had tea at the White House in November 2016.

Ms Obama also had a similar meeting with Laura Bush before Barack Obama was sworn in.

But Ms Trump's move is in line with her husband who has already announced he will not attend the inauguration.

He's the first outgoing President to skip the ceremony in 152 years, and will depart for Florida hours before Mr Biden's swearing-in.

Mr Biden's inauguration day will look very different to Mr Trump's, and not just because of COVID-19.

On the morning before he was sworn into office, Mr Trump and his wife had a private meeting with the Obamas.

The Trumps and the Obamas also travelled together in the presidential limousine for the short trip to the Capitol.

We'll also miss the traditional photo opportunity with the Trump and Biden families on the day.