Trump Posts AI-Generated Photo Showing Greenland, Canada As Part of US
Trump’s map post, which shows Greenland and Canada in US colours, has led to widespread criticism.
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On 20 January 2026, United States President Donald Trump posted an image on his official Truth Social account depicting Canada and Greenland coloured in the red, white, and blue of the American flag. The image was shared without a caption, coinciding with Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland and escalating tensions with European allies. The post came amid ongoing disputes with French President Emmanuel Macron and discussions about tariffs and Arctic security.
According to Hindustan Times, the symbolism of the map—visually folding Canada and Greenland into US territory—drew significant attention online and among international observers. While Trump made no formal policy announcement regarding Canada, the inclusion of both territories in US colours amplified concerns about Washington’s intentions and posture in the region.
As reported by The Indian Express, Trump also shared a private text message from Emmanuel Macron, in which the French president questioned the US approach to Greenland. Macron’s message stated, “I do not understand what you are doing on Greenland,” highlighting European confusion and concern over the US president’s actions. The authenticity of the message was confirmed by a source close to Macron.
European leaders have openly rejected US statements suggesting a takeover of Greenland, and France has participated in NATO-led military exercises in the region. Analysis showed that Trump’s threats to take over Greenland “one way or the other” have stoked anxiety among US transatlantic allies, with the White House confirming the president’s belief that Greenland is critical for US and global security.
Public reaction to Trump’s map post was swift, with many social media users interpreting the image as a signal of territorial intent. Coverage revealed that several posts on platforms such as X and Reddit warned the image risked normalising the idea of territorial expansion among Trump’s supporters, even in the absence of a formal military announcement.
“People are very afraid,” said Frej Lund Taunajik Adamsen, a demonstrator in Denmark, reflecting widespread unease about the implications of Trump’s actions for Greenland’s future.
In the days following the post, Trump reiterated his stance that Greenland is “imperative for National and World Security.” Reporting indicated that Trump discussed the issue with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and planned to raise it at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, arguing that Denmark cannot adequately protect the territory.
European Union and United Kingdom leaders have attempted to negotiate with Trump while keeping the possibility of retaliation open. Following reports, German and French officials have stated they will not allow themselves to be blackmailed and are considering economic retaliation if US tariffs are imposed to pressure for Greenland’s transfer.
Trump has repeatedly linked his push for Greenland to national security concerns, citing Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic. As details emerged, Trump accused European countries of ignoring NATO warnings about these threats and stated that the US acquisition of Greenland is necessary for both national and world security.
“There can be no going back—On that, everyone agrees!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, underscoring his administration’s firm position on the issue.
Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation are ongoing, with European leaders engaging in discussions and public demonstrations taking place in Denmark. Further developments indicate that the dispute has intensified transatlantic tensions, with the future of Greenland remaining a contentious issue in US-European relations.
Note: This article is produced using AI-assisted tools and is based on publicly available information. It has been reviewed by The Quint's editorial team before publishing.