Donald Trump arrived in Ireland on Saturday for a brief two-day visit. His schedule includes a meeting with Irish head of state, Catherine Connolly, known for her outspoken criticism of Trump. Connolly’s role does not involve setting foreign policy, but she holds significant influence as a representative of Dublin on the global stage. Her diplomatic sway is notable due to the considerable Irish American demographic, creating a bridge between Ireland and the United States.
Prior uncertainty surrounded whether Trump would meet Connolly during his visit, given her vocal opposition to U.S. policies. Despite her criticisms, Connolly has stated she would still extend a formal ‘meet and greet’ to Trump during his Irish visit. The situation drew attention from Irish media, especially concerning Connolly’s remarks earlier in the year around St. Patrick’s Day.
What Has the Irish President Said About Trump?
Catherine Connolly has consistently voiced her criticisms of Trump since her election as the Irish head of state in November 2025. Her critiques began when she served as a member of the Irish parliament, the Dáil. In February 2025, during a debate marking Russia’s invasion of Ukraine’s third anniversary, Connolly listed America, England, and France as countries Ireland could not trust.
She highlighted the Irish government’s failure to call out the U.S. while discussing Russia’s actions. Connolly stated, ‘Trump has trampled on international law, supporting Israel in actions reducing Gaza to devastation.’ Her campaign remarks on August 31, 2025, reiterated her distrust, asserting a nationwide ‘trust problem with America’ under Trump’s leadership. Connolly criticized Trump’s volatile and unpredictable nature, particularly due to tariffs impacting Ireland.
Connolly’s critiques extend to U.S. support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, following the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. She has equated this with avoiding discussions about genocide consequences. Her criticism around St. Patrick’s Day focused on military actions against Iran and other international security concerns, advocating for Ireland’s sovereign independence.
What Is Trump’s Schedule for Ireland?
During his visit, Trump will land in Dublin via Air Force One. His itinerary includes separate meetings with President Connolly and Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin at Phoenix Park, the location of the president’s residence. Trump will also meet U.S. ambassador Edward Walsh at Deerfield, also in Phoenix Park. After these engagements, Trump will travel to the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare. Here, he is expected to remain until Sunday for the Irish Open.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald announced that her party intends to protest Trump’s visit, advocating for Connolly to address the U.S. support of Israel amidst Gaza’s conflict. Demonstrations are scheduled for Saturday at Dublin’s Garden of Remembrance in Parnell Square, with expected attendance in the thousands. Further protests are slated for Doonbeg and Shannon Airport, coinciding with Trump’s arrival.
American support in the West Bank has urged Connolly’s advocates to confront Trump during his visit. The Social Democrats affirmed Connolly’s commitment to peace and international legal principles, aligning with popular sentiment in Ireland. The Greens expressed confidence in Connolly’s ability to effectively convey her concerns to Trump.
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