Trump asks Irish president if a united Ireland will happen in her lifetime

On Saturday, President Catherine Connolly hosted Donald Trump during his two-day trip to Ireland. Trump told reporters he would love to see a united Ireland and, in a private exchange, asked Connolly whether she believed the island would be unified before she dies. Connolly answered that the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 and the Irish constitution mandate that any change must be decided by consent, and she voiced optimism that reunification could occur within her lifetime.

She noted the constitutional framework repeatedly during the conversation. The remarks generated surprise and criticism from unionists, conservatives, and observers in both Ireland and Britain. Connolly made the comments while on a four-day visit to Scotland, speaking to reporters there.