The newly inaugurated Trump International Golf Links in Scotland, blending nature and golf.
Aberdeen, Scotland, July 30, 2025
President Donald Trump officially opened his new golf course, Trump International Golf Links, in Aberdeen, Scotland, showcasing environmental initiatives. The 18-hole course is set to open to the public soon, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by his sons. During the event, Trump emphasized Scotland’s significance to him, criticized wind turbines, and faced scrutiny over the trip’s taxpayer costs, estimated at $10 million. As he balances his business interests with his presidency, ethical questions regarding potential conflicts of interest arise.
Aberdeen, Scotland – President Donald Trump opened his new golf course, Trump International Golf Links, in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 29, highlighting the course’s environmental initiatives and its anticipated public opening on August 13.
Accompanied by his sons Eric and Donald Trump Jr., Trump described the 18-hole course as a “passion project.” The trip included meetings with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer at his Turnberry property, where discussions centered on trade and international issues. Starmer acknowledged Turnberry’s appeal, branding it a “fantastic” destination.
During the ceremony, Trump emphasized his connections to Scotland, noting that his mother hailed from the region. He criticized nearby wind turbines, which he described as “ugly monsters,” alleging that they negatively impact the environment and property values.
The Trump Organization now owns three golf courses in Scotland, which include the newly opened course in Balmedie, Turnberry, and another course established in 2012. Eric Trump boasted about the new course exceeding its budget, framing the project as an important family legacy and an enhanced golfing experience.
The ceremony featured traditional Scottish elements, such as bagpipes, a ribbon cut with golden scissors, and extensive media coverage. However, the event was marked by heightened security measures, including metal detectors for attendees, raising concerns about costs related to the president’s presence. The trip is estimated to have incurred around $10 million in taxpayer expenses, which cover travel, security, and logistics.
While promoting the golf course, Trump sought to underscore his influence in international affairs, claiming credit for peace efforts, including a ceasefire he helped mediate between Cambodia and Thailand. These assertions come in the context of ongoing global crises, such as the war in Ukraine and humanitarian challenges in Gaza.
After the ceremony, it was reported that Trump and his family enjoyed rounds of golf together amid California’s summer heat. The trip also allowed Trump to shift focus from the controversies surrounding his administration, which continue to generate headlines in the United States.
Despite the successful opening of his golf course, Trump’s promotion of personal business ventures during an official trip has raised ethical concerns regarding conflicts of interest. The precise balance of his role as a business owner and a sitting president remains a contentious topic in both politics and public opinion.
President Trump’s recent trip to Scotland reflects not only a personal connection to the country but also the intertwining of his family business with his political life. With previous investments in Scottish properties, such as Turnberry, the president’s ventures have drawn scrutiny due to the potential ethical implications of using his political platform to promote his business interests.
The establishment of the Trump International Golf Links signals a continued commitment to development in Scotland, with the Trump Organization emphasizing sustainability in its new projects. The course aims to provide an “unmatched experience” for golfers while addressing community and environmental concerns.
It is a new 18-hole golf course located near Aberdeen, Scotland, officially opening to the public on August 13.
The trip raises ethical concerns about conflicts of interest as Trump promotes his family business while serving as president, combined with high security costs incurred by taxpayers.
The Trump International Golf Links aims to implement sustainable practices in its operations, although specific initiatives were not disclosed during the opening.
Trump’s mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born in Scotland, which he often references as a personal aspect of his identity.
It is estimated that the trip incurred around $10 million due to travel, security, and logistics expenses.
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