US President Donald Trump says he would like to see a unified Ireland, telling reporters that Irish unification “is going to happen eventually.” The remarks are made during a visit to Ireland, including a meeting with Ireland’s taoiseach, Micheál Martin, and later remarks in connection with a golf tournament in Doonbeg.

The comments draw political reaction in Northern Ireland and are portrayed by multiple outlets as sensitive because the issue intersects with UK policy and the Good Friday Agreement framework. Bloomberg reports Trump’s remarks put him at odds with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who has said the subject is “off the table.” Other coverage similarly emphasizes Trump’s supportive stance and his prediction of eventual unification, while one outlet notes Trump acknowledges the topic could inflame tensions at the time he raises it. Irish political figures are also shown as avoiding direct engagement, according to one report stating Micheál Martin refuses to be drawn into the controversy.