Trump Arrives in Ireland Amid Tight Security

U.S. President Donald Trump continued a two-day visit to Ireland at his Doonbeg golf resort, where he watched the Irish Open and was expected to present the winner’s trophy before returning to the United States. In Dublin, he met President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin, alongside engagements with embassy staff and other Irish officials, with talks covering bilateral economic and political issues including a possible Irish agreement to purchase U.S. liquefied natural gas. Trump’s statement that Irish unity would be a “great thing” prompted concern and debate in Northern Ireland, the Republic and the UK, while remarks about Britain’s ability to defend the Falkland Islands added to diplomatic tensions. The visit highlighted close economic and cultural ties as well as disagreements over Trump’s policies, Irish neutrality and the conflict in the Middle East. An extensive security operation involving An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s Defence Forces and the U.S. Secret Service imposed traffic, movement, drone and maritime restrictions around Dublin, County Clare, airports and major roads, while protests took place or were planned in Dublin, Doonbeg and near Shannon Airport. Supporters greeted Trump at the resort, while Irish golfer Shane Lowry led the tournament entering the final round and Rory McIlroy commented on seeing Air Force One near the course.