Donald Trump has reiterated his support for a united Ireland, saying he "loved" the anger his comments provoked among right-wing British politicians. His remarks, made during a two-day visit to the Irish Republic combining diplomacy and golf, have deepened strains in the UK-US relationship and drawn sharp criticism from senior figures across the political spectrum, including allies who would normally back him.

Speaking alongside Taoiseach Micheál Martin at Farmleigh Estate on Saturday, the 80-year-old president said Irish reunification was "one of the naturals of all time" and would "happen eventually", predicting it "may as well happen now". Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused him of "shooting from the hip", while Nigel Farage said he disagreed with the president, insisting Northern Ireland was "a proud and integral part of the United Kingdom". The comments were welcomed by Irish nationalist figures, including SDLP leader Claire Hanna, but condemned by Democratic Unionist Party leader Gavin Robinson, and Communities Secretary Angela Rayner declined to be drawn into the row while stressing the UK's commitment to the Good Friday Agreement.