Jerry Jackson Donald Trump Jr.’s recent visit to Nuuk, Greenland, has become a topic of controversy. Reports suggest that his lunch event included homeless individuals drawn by the offer of free food, leading to questions about its organization and intent.
A Surprising Lunch Event
Trump Jr. hosted a lunch at the Hotel Hans Egede, where approximately 15 guests, some in MAGA hats, joined him for a traditional Greenlandic meal of fish and caribou. During the event, he called his father, President-elect Donald Trump, who spoke to the attendees via speakerphone and assured them, “We’re going to treat you well.”
However, Jørgen Bay-Kastrup, the hotel’s CEO, revealed that many of the attendees were not political supporters. Instead, Trump Jr.’s team reportedly invited people they met on the streets, some of whom were homeless. “They didn’t seem to know who they were meeting until later,” Bay-Kastrup noted. He added that these individuals were not typical hotel visitors, as the venue is usually beyond their financial reach.
Contradicting Claims and Public Reactions
Trump Jr.’s spokesperson strongly denied the claims, calling them “completely absurd.” Arthur Schwartz, a close ally, dismissed the story as implausible. “Cameras followed him the entire visit. The idea that he personally recruited homeless people is ridiculous,” Schwartz said.
Meanwhile, other incidents following the lunch event have added to the debate. Individuals dressed in MAGA hats and American flag clothing were seen handing out $100 bills near a local supermarket in Nuuk. Jacob Nordstrøm, a resident, expressed concern when his 11-year-old son returned home with one of the bills. “It’s unsettling that my child received money from an unknown adult,” he told the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq. While some residents found the gesture amusing, one individual reportedly stomped on a MAGA hat in protest.
Greenland Pushes Back on U.S. Interests
The controversy unfolded alongside President Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland. Trump has previously suggested using economic or military strategies to gain control of the island, sparking resistance from both Greenland and Denmark. While they have firmly rejected the idea of selling the territory, Greenland’s prime minister expressed openness to working with the U.S., particularly in mining and other industries.
Bay-Kastrup emphasized the territory’s position, stating, “Greenland is not something to be sold or traded. We welcome cooperation but remain independent.”
A Polarizing Visit Leaves Questions
Trump Jr.’s visit has left a mixed impression on locals in Nuuk. While it may have aimed to build goodwill, the unexpected nature of the guest list and cash giveaways has sparked concerns and debate. These events highlight the complexity of U.S.-Greenland relations and underline the importance of thoughtful engagement in the future.