5 key moments from day one of Trump in Ireland
Donald Trump's first day in Ireland saw courtesy calls with the President and Taoiseach, followed by a flight to Clare to watch the Irish Open.
On the first day of his visit to Ireland, US President Donald Trump held courtesy calls with the President and Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Following these meetings, Trump flew to Clare to watch the Irish Open. His comments on a united Ireland during a news conference were met with mixed reactions across Ireland and the UK. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald acknowledged Trump's comments, suggesting the onus lies with the Taoiseach to begin planning for a united Ireland.
Meanwhile, DUP leader Gavin Robinson stated that Northern Ireland's constitutional future would be decided by its people, not by commentary from London, Dublin, or Washington.
Later that day, President Trump reiterated his support for a united Ireland in a speech at the US Ambassador's residence. He acknowledged that being asked about reunification is a tricky question, implying that no matter what response he gives, it will not be satisfactory. In a courtesy call with President of Ireland Catherine Connolly, they met for over 20 minutes.
Connolly conveyed the Irish people's strong view against the normalization of war and genocide, presenting Trump with gifts including a St Brigid's Cross, a book, and poems by Michael Longley. Protesters gathered in Dublin, Doonbeg, and Shannon Airport to criticize Trump's welcome, with some calling for the US military to leave Shannon.
Finally, Trump attended the Irish Open golf tournament in Doonbeg, where he enjoyed the event alongside his son Eric.
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