During a visit to Dublin, former US President Donald Trump expressed his support for the idea of a united Ireland, suggesting that the unification of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland could occur eventually, and positing, “it may as well happen now.” His remarks came after meetings with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin, where Trump characterized such a development as potentially “fantastic,” though he acknowledged the United Kingdom’s role in the decision-making process.

Trump’s comments quickly elicited responses from both the UK government and unionist leaders in Northern Ireland. A spokesperson for Downing Street reiterated the government’s stance that there is currently not enough public backing for a referendum on Irish unification, as outlined in the Good Friday Agreement. Meanwhile, Gavin Robinson, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, emphasized that any decision regarding Northern Ireland’s constitutional status should rest with its people, rather than political figures from London, Dublin, or Washington, affirming his preference for Northern Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom.

These statements mark a notable shift in tone compared to previous US administrations, which have typically maintained a neutral position on the issue of Northern Ireland’s constitutional future. However, there was no indication that Trump’s comments reflected an official change in US policy.

Alongside the discussion about Irish unification, Trump also addressed US-Irish economic relations and broader international concerns during his time in Ireland. His visit was met with protests in Dublin, where thousands gathered to voice their opposition to his policies and to call for him to leave the country.

Following his engagements in Dublin, Trump traveled to his golf resort located in County Clare. There, he was scheduled to attend the Irish Open before making his return to the United States.