Trump Wades Into Debate Over Irish Unification

Summary

President Donald Trump's remarks in Dublin endorsing a united Ireland and calling unification inevitable stirred political debate, drawing support from Sinn Féin and criticism from unionists. Bloomberg's Jennifer Dlouhy noted the comments depart from traditional US presidential caution on the issue, while UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says there is no current mandate for a referendum. The segment also covered the context of the brief visit: protests in Dublin, Ireland's warm handling of its trade and investment relationship with Trump, and lingering friction over US pharmaceutical investment in Ireland.

• Trump said in Dublin he would like to see a united Ireland and called unification inevitable.
• The comments drew support from Sinn Féin and criticism from unionists.
• UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said there is currently no mandate for a referendum.
• Protests gathered in Dublin during Trump's brief visit before he departed for his golf resort.
• Trump's remarks depart from the traditional US presidential avoidance of the unification issue.
• Ireland's Taoiseach Martin has maintained warm relations with Trump and eased some concerns over US pharma investment in Ireland.
• Ireland currently holds the rotating EU presidency, adding sensitivity to the trip.
• Trump met Irish President Connelly behind closed doors amid her past criticism of him.