Connolly presents Trump with symbols of peace during courtesy call

Irish President Catherine Connolly presented United States President Donald Trump with a St Brigid’s Cross and a collection of poems, including the famous Michael Longley sonnet Ceasefire, during a courtesy call at Áras an Uachtaráin. The gifts symbolized peace, considering Connolly's previous criticisms of Trump. The visit, part of Trump's two-day trip to Ireland, was expected to be a significant diplomatic test for Connolly, who had previously called Trump "volatile" and "acting like a bully".

Despite the anticipated scrutiny, the meeting proceeded without major incident. Trump mistakenly referred to Connolly as "he" during their conversation in the Oval Office, but the ceremony passed smoothly. The two presidents exchanged pleasantries, including a handshake and a brief photo opportunity. The visit concluded with Trump leaving a message in Connolly's visitors' book: "A GREAT HONOR TO BE HERE THANK YOU".