Trump backs Irish unification, contradicting UK Prime Minister Burnham
Trump said he would love to see Ireland unified. This contradicts UK PM Burnham, who said the issue is off the table.
During a visit to Dublin on Saturday, Trump said he would love to see Ireland unified. The remark puts him at odds with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
Burnham has ruled out discussing a border poll, the formal vote on reunification. Support for unification is growing in Northern Ireland.
But recent polling shows no clear majority in favour. The US played a major role in the 1990s peace accord that largely ended sectarian violence.
Unionist politicians in Northern Ireland quickly criticised Trump's comments. They said the region's future should be decided by its own people.
Trump later acknowledged the remark was controversial. He called it one of those questions with no good answer.
- Micheál Martin
- Irish PM
- Andy Burnham
- UK PM
- 1990s Good Friday Agreement
- Peace accord
- Gavin Robinson
- DUP leader
Why it mattersTrump's public support for Irish unification creates tension between the US and UK. This is a sensitive political issue that could affect peace in Northern Ireland.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but the US position on Irish unification shapes diplomatic outcomes in a region where Australia has historic ties.
