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Ireland holds its breath as its leftwing president prepares to meet Trump
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Ireland’s president, Catherine Connolly, has publicly criticized Donald Trump as an abuser of power, creating tension ahead of their planned meeting during Trump’s two-day visit to Dublin focused on golf.
- The Irish government is anxious about the encounter, balancing hopes that Connolly will speak out on issues like immigration and Middle East policies against fears of provoking Trump, who has significant economic ties to Ireland.
- Heavy security measures are in place to protect Trump from expected protests in Dublin, including a large “No welcome for Trump” demonstration planned for Saturday afternoon.
- Connolly, a former leftwing parliamentarian who protested Trump’s 2019 visit, has pledged to respect the largely ceremonial nature of her office but is seen by some as a potential voice of opposition during the meeting.
- Experts suggest Connolly may follow the example of Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who has managed to address Trump’s views diplomatically without causing diplomatic friction, aiming for a smooth interaction.
