Donald Trump Jr.’s recent trip to Nuuk, Greenland, has sparked debate after claims surfaced about the unexpected nature of his lunch guests. Reports suggest that some attendees were homeless individuals invited for a free meal, raising questions about the purpose and planning of the event.
Trump Jr. Hosts Unusual Lunch Event
During his visit, Trump Jr. held a lunch at the Hotel Hans Egede, attended by about 15 people, some wearing MAGA hats. The group enjoyed a Greenlandic meal featuring fish and caribou, while Trump Jr. placed a call to his father, President-elect Donald Trump. Over speakerphone, Trump assured the attendees, “We’re going to treat you well.”
However, Jørgen Bay-Kastrup, the hotel’s CEO, later revealed that the guests were not political supporters. He explained that Trump Jr.’s team had invited people from the streets, including homeless individuals, many of whom were unaware of who their host was. “They didn’t know him before the meal,” Bay-Kastrup stated. He added that the guests were not typical visitors to the upscale hotel due to financial limitations.
Mixed Reactions and Denials
Trump Jr.’s spokesperson dismissed the allegations as “ridiculous,” while Arthur Schwartz, a political ally, strongly denied the claims. “The idea that Trump Jr. personally invited homeless people to lunch is absurd,” Schwartz said, adding that cameras had followed Trump Jr. throughout his visit.
In the days following the event, individuals in MAGA hats were spotted distributing $100 bills near a supermarket in Nuuk. Local residents reacted with a mix of curiosity and concern. One man, Jacob Nordstrøm, shared that his 11-year-old son returned home with one of the bills. “It’s unsettling to know an adult gave my child money without context,” he told the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq. Some found the act amusing, though one resident expressed disapproval by stomping on a MAGA hat.
Greenland’s Stance on U.S. Interest
The visit coincided with renewed U.S. interest in acquiring Greenland, an idea previously floated by President Trump. Despite firm rejections from Greenland and Denmark, Trump has suggested using economic or military measures to secure the island. Greenland’s prime minister, however, expressed openness to increased cooperation with the U.S., particularly in areas like mining.
Reflecting the local sentiment, Bay-Kastrup stated, “Greenland is not for sale. Cooperation is welcome, but we are not a tradeable asset.”
Aftermath of the Visit
The controversy surrounding Trump Jr.’s lunch and subsequent cash handouts has fueled debate in Nuuk. While the visit may have aimed to foster goodwill, it has instead highlighted concerns about the approach taken. These events underscore the complexities of U.S.-Greenland relations and emphasize the need for respectful and transparent interactions moving forward.