Donald Trump’s Visit to Ireland: Key Insights and Reactions

Donald Trump’s Irish Visit

Donald Trump arrived in Ireland on Saturday for a two-day visit, engaging with key figures including the Irish head of state, Catherine Connolly, who has been openly critical of him.

Diplomatic Dynamics

Catherine Connolly, although not setting foreign policy, represents Dublin internationally. Her influence stems from a significant Irish American demographic that bridges Dublin and Washington.

Before Trump’s visit, there was uncertainty about a meeting with Connolly, due to her past criticisms, especially around St. Patrick’s Day.

Connolly has stated her readiness to meet Trump despite opposing his policies. Newsweek reached out to both Connolly’s office and the White House for comments.

Catherine Connolly’s Criticism of Trump

Connolly, as a lawmaker, has been vocal against Trump, both in the Irish parliament during her presidential campaign and since her election in November 2025.

In February 2025, Connolly criticized America, alongside England and France, in a debate marking three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

She accused the Irish government of using Russia’s actions as a diversion and expressed distrust toward America, condemning Trump’s support for activities in Gaza and imposing tariffs unjustly, including on Ireland.

Connolly emphasized the need for discussing not only tariffs’ effects but also the “consequences of genocide,” referring to U.S. backing for Israel post-Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023.

Around St. Patrick’s Day, Connolly criticized Trump for U.S. military actions in Iran and broader security concerns, urging neutrality and voicing against Trump’s abuse of power.

In response to Connolly’s comments, Trump, during a White House meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, incorrectly referred to Connolly’s gender, stating, “he’s lucky I exist, that’s all I can say.”

Trump’s Itinerary in Ireland

Trump arrived in Dublin on Air Force One, planning separate meetings with Connolly and Martin at Phoenix Park. He would also meet U.S. ambassador Edward Walsh there.

Following these meetings, Trump was scheduled to visit the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare, for the Irish Open, staying until Sunday.

Mary Lou McDonald, leader of Sinn Féin, organized protests against the visit, urging Connolly to challenge Trump’s support for Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Protests involving thousands are expected at Dublin’s Garden of Remembrance at 1 p.m. on Saturday, with further demonstrations at Doonbeg and Shannon Airport, anticipating Trump’s arrival there later that evening.

Connolly’s supporters anticipate her confronting Trump over Israel’s backing and West Bank settlements, as reported by The Irish Times.

The Social Democrats and The Greens expressed confidence that Connolly would advocate for peace and international law in her dealings with Trump.

Newsweek editors Daniel Orton and Sam Wilson were contacted for this coverage.