Trump Backs Irish Reunification During Visit, Sparking UK Unionist Backlash
Donald Trump expressed support for a united Ireland during his visit, causing political controversy and drawing criticism from unionist groups.
By Mei-Ling Chao · First published 12 Sept 2026
In brief
- Donald Trump is completing a two-day visit to Ireland, attending the Irish Open and meeting with Irish leaders.
- He has reiterated his support for a united Ireland, calling reunification 'fantastic' and predicting it will eventually happen.
- Trump's remarks continue to provoke backlash from UK unionists and British officials, with Sinn Fein expressing approval.
- Security at the Irish Open remains extremely tight, with 4,000 police officers and snipers deployed due to Trump's presence.
- Protests in Dublin have intensified, with thousands demonstrating against Trump's visit and the Irish government's reception.
Timeline · 11 moments
Trump to attend Irish Open at Doonbeg
Home | GB News ↗Rory McIlroy voices concerns about Trump's visit
BBC Sport ↗Irish Open begins with slow play and tough conditions
The42 ↗Doonbeg residents prepare for Trump's arrival
Irish Times ↗Security intensifies ahead of Trump visit
CBS Top Stories ↗Trump lands in Ireland for meetings and golf
The Independent ↗Irish authorities deploy 4,000 police for visit
South China Morning Post ↗Trump scheduled to meet Irish leaders during stay
BBC World ↗Trump publicly supports Irish reunification during Dublin press conference
Sky News ↗Trump repeats Irish unity comments, plans to present golf trophy
Irish Times ↗Update 13 Sept 2026, 6:02 pm UTC
Trump has doubled down on his support for Irish reunification, repeating his comments despite criticism from UK unionists and British officials. He has now shifted his focus to the Irish Open's final round, where he will present the trophy, while protests in Dublin have grown larger and more vocal.
Update 12 Sept 2026, 6:19 pm UTC
Trump's call for Irish reunification has triggered strong reactions from UK unionists and British officials, with Nigel Farage and others publicly criticizing his remarks. Protests against Trump's visit have grown in Dublin, while he continues to attend the Irish Open and hold talks with Irish leaders.
Update 12 Sept 2026, 2:18 pm UTC
Donald Trump publicly backed Irish reunification during his visit, saying he 'would love to see' a united Ireland. His comments have sparked political controversy, especially among unionists in the UK, and drew strong reactions from Irish and British leaders.
How it started
Donald Trump announced plans to visit Ireland during the Irish Open, which is being held at his Doonbeg golf resort. The visit was set to blend his diplomatic responsibilities with a personal interest in golf.
Trump's anticipated presence quickly became a focal point for both supporters and critics, especially as local residents discussed the economic impact of his investment in the area. Meanwhile, tournament organizers and players, including Rory McIlroy, began preparing for an event that would attract global attention.
How it unfolded
On September 7, reports confirmed that Trump would attend the Irish Open as part of a broader diplomatic trip to Ireland. The event, scheduled for September 10-13, generated immediate discussion about security and logistics.
Leading up to the tournament, Rory McIlroy acknowledged that Trump's attendance would make the event feel different and admitted to personal frustrations about the heightened attention. As the tournament began, slow play and challenging weather conditions affected the opening rounds, with McIlroy struggling to find rhythm.
By September 11, the village of Doonbeg was preparing for Trump's arrival. While some residents highlighted the jobs and tourism his resort brought, others voiced opposition to his politics. Security preparations intensified, with Irish authorities deploying snipers and thousands of police officers.
Trump landed in Ireland on September 12, greeted by government officials and a major security presence. His official schedule included meetings with President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, alongside his attendance at the tournament.
Where it stands
Trump is currently in Ireland, participating in diplomatic meetings and attending the Irish Open at his Doonbeg club. The event is unfolding under heavy security, with both vocal protests and visible support from the local community.
Players and organizers continue to manage the unique pressures of hosting a major sporting event with a controversial political figure in attendance. The tournament is ongoing, with attention focused on both the golf and the broader implications of Trump's visit.
What to watch
Observers will be watching for the outcome of Trump's meetings with Irish leaders and any statements that may emerge. The impact of his presence on the tournament and on local sentiment will also remain in focus as the event concludes.
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