Trump’s Ireland visit draws attention to Irish unity and business interests

US President Donald Trump spent the final day of his two-day visit to Ireland focusing on golf and his business interests, after remarks

US President Donald Trump spent the final day of his two-day visit to Ireland focusing on golf and his business interests, after remarks about Irish reunification created a fresh political debate in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Trump surprised his Irish hosts and British officials on Saturday when he expressed support for the idea of a united Ireland. During a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin in Dublin, the US president broke from Washington’s traditional neutral position on the issue and suggested that the reunification of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland could eventually become a reality.

Trump said that if reunification was going to happen eventually, “it may as well happen now”, comments that immediately drew criticism from pro-UK unionists in Northern Ireland and some politicians in Britain.

UK minister Angela Rayner acknowledged that Trump would express his views but stressed that the British government remained committed to the Good Friday Agreement. The 1998 agreement brought an end to much of the sectarian conflict that had continued in Northern Ireland for decades.

Under the agreement, a referendum on Irish unity can be held if the UK government determines that a majority in Northern Ireland is likely to support reunification. A separate referendum would also have to be held in the Republic of Ireland.

Heavy security for Trump’s golf visit

Following his Dublin meeting, Trump travelled to Doonbeg on Ireland’s western coast, where his Trump Organisation-owned golf resort is hosting the Irish Open. The tournament was the principal reason for his visit, and Trump was scheduled to attend the event before returning to Washington.

Security around the resort was significantly tightened, with roads closed and police checkpoints established in the surrounding area. About 4,000 Irish and US security personnel were reportedly involved in the operation, which also included anti-drone measures.

Around 30 protesters gathered in nearby Doonbeg to oppose Trump’s visit, while golf fans assembled outside the clubhouse in the hope of seeing the US president.

Trump was accompanied by his sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., who have managed the family’s business operations since their father returned to the White House.

During his meeting with Martin, Trump praised the Doonbeg course, describing it as one of the world’s greatest. Martin said residents of the area appreciated the Trump Organisation’s investment in the resort after it purchased the property in 2014.

Around 40,000 spectators were expected to attend the Irish Open, with Irish golfer Shane Lowry among the favourites. Trump could also present the tournament trophy to the winner.

Business interests raise conflict concerns

Trump’s presence at his own resort has again raised questions about the relationship between his presidency and private business interests. The County Clare golf course has previously been targeted by pro-Palestinian activists.

Police said three women were due to appear before a court after being arrested over separate trespass and public-order offences.

Trump, who regularly plays golf at his family properties in the United States, is also scheduled to host the G20 summit at his Miami golf resort in December.

US Democrats have repeatedly criticised what they describe as a blurred line between Trump’s official responsibilities and his private commercial interests. Financial disclosures showed that Trump earned more than $2 billion in 2025, with a significant portion linked to cryptocurrency activities, compared with slightly more than $600 million in 2024.

The White House has rejected allegations that Trump uses his presidency for personal enrichment.

Former White House ethics lawyer Richard Painter, however, warned that Trump’s business activities could create the perception that individuals seeking influence might attempt to gain favour by doing business with or patronising his properties.