UPDATE: The White House has ignited a social media firestorm after sharing an AI-generated image depicting President Donald Trump holding hands with a penguin in Greenland. The post, made on July 15, 2025, shows the duo walking towards a Greenland flag set against a snowy mountain backdrop, stirring controversy over its scientific inaccuracies and the implications of Trump’s ongoing rhetoric regarding the territory.
The image, released by White House Communications Director Stephen Cheung, is part of a broader strategy aimed at provoking reactions from Trump’s adversaries. Critics are alarmed, noting that penguins do not inhabit Greenland or the Northern Hemisphere. One social media user quipped, “There are no penguins in Greenland you morons,” as others began creating their own memes featuring the bizarre image.
This latest development comes as Trump recently moderated his aggressive approach toward Greenland, previously suggesting military action and tariffs on nations supporting Denmark. However, the AI image sends a clear message to his NATO partners: aggressive rhetoric remains a possibility.
Earlier in the week, Trump hinted at a “concept of a deal” regarding Greenland, a territory owned by Denmark, without providing details. During an interview with CNBC, he mentioned discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, suggesting a framework for a “deal that’s forever.” He claimed it would be “really fantastic for the U.S.A.” and hinted at mineral rights or ownership, but specifics were scant.
While the president’s threats at the World Economic Forum in Davos raised concerns of a rift within NATO, member nations firmly stated that Greenland is not for sale. Trump’s comments about seeking territory that is “cold and poorly located” drew ire, with allies rejecting his bellicose stance and promised tariffs.
This incident is not an isolated one. Trump’s team has frequently utilized AI to craft provocative images and narratives, including portraying him in various fantastical scenarios. In February, an AI-generated video depicted a tropical Gaza Strip, and last October, a controversial video showed Trump piloting a military jet and targeting protesters.
Critics, including The Atlantic‘s Elaine Godfrey, have described Cheung’s communication strategy as one of “relentless hostility,” showcasing the administration’s inclination towards performative and aggressive messaging.
As social media users continue to react to the penguin image, the impact of Trump’s communications strategy on international relations and domestic perceptions remains to be seen. The incident highlights the intersection of political messaging and public perception, emphasizing the urgency of understanding Trump’s evolving narrative.
As developments unfold, observers are left questioning the implications of this latest stunt. Will the White House continue to provoke international relations with such tactics? What does this mean for Trump’s standing among allies? Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
