Donald Trump is set to arrive in Ireland on Saturday for a two-day visit. During his stay, he will meet with the Irish head of state, Catherine Connolly. Known for her critical stance on Trump, Connolly previously referred to him as a “bully.” Though the Irish president does not establish foreign policy, she holds a notable diplomatic role between Dublin and Washington, particularly due to the substantial Irish American community.
The meeting between Trump and Connolly was uncertain, according to Irish media reports, mainly due to Connolly’s past criticism of Trump, including during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Despite her opposition to Trump’s policies, Connolly has expressed her willingness to “meet and greet” him if he visits Ireland. Newsweek has reached out to both Connolly’s office and the White House for comments.
Criticism from the Irish President
Catherine Connolly has a history of critical remarks about Donald Trump during her political career in the Irish parliament and as president. In February 2025, before assuming the presidency, Connolly stated in a parliamentary debate that countries like America, England, and France are not trustworthy. She criticized the Irish government for not addressing America’s actions, especially when Trump was called a friend despite his international law violations.
During her presidential campaign, Connolly reiterated her distrust towards the United States. On August 31, 2025, she said that Trump was “volatile, unpredictable, and acting like a bully” while imposing tariffs on countries like Ireland. She also accused the U.S. of supporting Israel’s military actions in Gaza, following attacks by Hamas on Israel in October 2023.
Connolly criticized U.S. military actions and broader international security issues during St. Patrick’s Day, urging Ireland to act as an independent, neutral republic and challenge Trump’s abuses of power. When Trump was questioned about Connolly’s comments at the White House, he mistakenly referenced Connolly’s gender and minimized the criticism.
Trump’s Schedule in Ireland
Trump is scheduled to land in Dublin on Air Force One on Saturday. He will meet Connolly and Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin in separate meetings at Phoenix Park, where the president’s residence is located. Additionally, Trump plans to meet U.S. ambassador Edward Walsh, who also resides in Phoenix Park.
The itinerary includes a visit to the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare, for the Irish Open, where he will stay until Sunday. The Irish Times reported that Mary Lou McDonald, Sinn Féin’s leader, announced her party’s intention to protest against Trump’s visit. McDonald urged Connolly to address U.S. support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Protests are expected at various locations, including the Garden of Remembrance in Dublin’s Parnell Square and Shannon Airport. Organizers anticipate a large turnout. Connolly’s supporters hope she will confront Trump over U.S. policies toward Israel and West Bank settlements.
The Social Democrats party expressed confidence in Connolly’s advocacy for peace and international law, reflecting the sentiments of many Irish citizens. The Greens also showed faith that Connolly would effectively communicate her points to Trump during the visit.