President Donald Trump drew criticism from political leaders in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom on Saturday after stating in Dublin that he would love to see a unified Ireland. Following closed-door meetings with Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Trump told reporters during a news conference that a united Ireland would be “fantastic” and suggested the move should happen immediately. His remarks drew swift backlash from unionist leaders who emphasized that Northern Ireland’s constitutional status rests solely with its residents, in accordance with the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. Democratic Unionist Party leader Gavin Robinson and Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows both stated on social media that the region’s future will not be decided by foreign figures or external commentary. A spokesperson for U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham reaffirmed that Burnham remains fully committed to the Good Friday Agreement and that a unity vote is not on the agenda. Meanwhile, protesters gathered in Dublin during Trump’s two-day visit, which also included a stop at his resort golf tournament. Despite the controversy, Trump defended his remarks later that day during an appearance at the U.S. ambassador’s residence.
Source: abcnews.com
