{"id":351200,"date":"2026-03-17T18:31:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:31:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/351200\/"},"modified":"2026-03-17T18:31:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:31:12","slug":"trump-takes-aim-at-nato-europe-and-starmer-in-meeting-with-micheal-martin-the-irish-times","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/351200\/","title":{"rendered":"Trump takes aim at Nato, Europe and Starmer in meeting with Miche\u00e1l Martin \u2013 The Irish Times"},"content":{"rendered":"

Main PointsIran<\/a>, Nato <\/a>and UK <\/a>leader Keir Starmer<\/a> were the main talking points as the Taoiseach <\/a>met with Donald Trump<\/a> this afternoonThe US <\/a>prevented \u201cnuclear holocaust\u201d by bombing Iran, Trump claimedMartin said you cannot have a \u201crogue state\u201d with nuclear weapons and outlined the Irish position on IranThe Taoiseach will head to the US Congress for a formal lunch at 5pm (Irish time) The annual shamrock ceremony is due to take place around 9pm Irish timeKey Reads<\/p>\n

Jack White – 5 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Trump\u2019s remarks at the lunch covered many of the same points he made in the Oval Office, Political Editor Pat Leahy reports.<\/p>\n

These were namely what a great job he is doing in general and how dangerous Iran was before he launched the attacks.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t have lunatics controlling nuclear weapons,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Trump joked he would let the Taoiseach know if he was having any difficulties in Doonbeg.<\/p>\n

At least he might have been joking.<\/p>\n

Jack White – 7 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Martin says the US Congress played a \u201cpivotal role\u201d in achieving and securing a lasting peace on the Island of Ireland.<\/p>\n

\u201cI pay tribute to the generations of people who have served here and who believed in and invested in this peace. We will never forget them. We will always remember that in our darkest and bleakest hours, they kept the faith. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe still your support and your energy to maintain that peace and to support reconciliation,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

Finishing up, the Taoiseach thanks Trump for \u201cyour friendship for Ireland, a country you know well\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is truth to the Irish proverb that \u2018the road to a friend\u2019s house is never long\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jack White – 16 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Martin says every day, more than 200,000 Americans go to work each morning in nearly 800 Irish-owned companies operating in every sector in ever state.<\/p>\n

He adds that Ireland is the fifth-largest foreign investor in the US.<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom little acorns, mighty oaks grow,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

Jack White – 18 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin says the gathering \u201csignifies the ties that bind our two countries and the bipartisan commitment to peace and reconciliation in Ireland\u201d.<\/p>\n

He adds that since the founding of the United States, Irish people have been at the \u201cbeating heart of American democracy and civic life as politicians, faith leaders, police officers, firefighters, nurses, community leaders and construction workers\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cIrish people helped to build the American dream with tenacity and with courage,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

Jack White – 23 minutes ago<\/p>\n

\u201cThe United States and Ireland continue to build upon the age-old bond together. We are strengthening the ties of culture,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

He adds that Irish companies are investing more than $6 billion into the United States.<\/p>\n

Jack White – 26 minutes ago<\/p>\n

\u201cI love Ireland. In fact, we\u2019re going to have the Irish Open at a property that happens to be owned by yours truly but I have nothing to do with it,\u201d Trump says.<\/p>\n

He adds that 130 members of the House and Senate have been born in Ireland, and have been \u201celected to work in these great halls\u201d.<\/p>\n

Jack White – 34 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Speaking at the Friends of Ireland luncheon US president Donald Trump has told Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin \u201cyou mean business\u201d, adding that he can \u201ctell a story like nobody can tell a story\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve had a really great relationship,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Pointing to some present, he noted the US ambassador to Ireland, Edward Walsh, is a \u201cgreat\u201d golfer, adding: \u201cBut Trumps not bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s having a lot of fun over there,\u201d Trump said, adding that it must be \u201cthe greatest job in the world.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jack White – 49 minutes ago<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach has thanked Trump for his \u201cgenerous welcome\u201d to the White House.<\/p>\n

The relationship between the United States and Ireland is deep and enduring.<\/p>\n

It will always be special. \ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf8\u2618\ufe0f<\/p>\n

On behalf of Irish people everywhere this St. Patrick\u2019s Day, thank you \u2066@POTUS<\/a>\u2069 Trump for your generous welcome to the White House. pic.twitter.com\/jpS9grnvk9<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Miche\u00e1l Martin (@MichealMartinTD) March 17, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Meeting was \u2018a missed opportunity\u2019 for Martin – Cairns<\/p>\n

Holly Cairns, leader of the Social Democrats, described the meeting as \u201ca missed opportunity for Miche\u00e1l Martin to stand up for international law and peace\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Taoiseach remained almost entirely mute as Trump went on a tirade, spreading misinformation to defend his illegal war in Iran. When he finally did interject, he gave the impression that Ireland had no issue with Trump\u2019s unprovoked attack on Iran \u2013 a flagrant breach of international law,” Cairns said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIncredibly, at one point, the Taoiseach said Trump was \u2018doing [his] bit\u2019 for peace in the Middle East \u2013 mere weeks after Trump launched an illegal war which has destabilised the entire region and unleashed chaos.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe only person Miche\u00e1l Martin sought to strongly defend today was British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He made a point of attempting to firmly rebuff some of Trump\u2019s attacks on him. However, when Trump mistakenly thought our own President was a man, Miche\u00e1l Martin failed to correct the record.<\/p>\n

\u201cFurther, when it came to a more pointed defence of our European allies and a clear criticism of Trump\u2019s warmongering, the Taoiseach was meek and mute. He did not represent the views of the Irish people, who are appalled at Trump\u2019s lawless and belligerent Presidency.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was unclear from the meeting if the Taoiseach has extended a formal invitation to Trump to come to Ireland later this year, but any such invitation would be outrageous. The Irish people do not want a red carpet to be rolled out for an American president who is dismantling international law and institutions.\u201d<\/p>\n

The public meeting has now ended.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a quick recap from Political Editor Pat Leahy: <\/p>\n

That went as well as Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin could have hoped. Though for long periods of the press conference in the Oval Office he was just an onlooker, he intervened to answer Trump\u2019s attacks on Europe over migration and on British prime minister Keir Starmer, whom Martin defended strongly. <\/p>\n

Moreover he managed to do it without clashing publicly with Trump. The US president was cranky with Nato, but the Taoiseach kept his head down of all that. He may have more Trump headaches to deal with though – the president said he hoped to come to Doonbeg in September for the Irish Open.<\/p>\n

Fuel prices will \u2018drop like a rock\u2019 when Iran war is over – Trump<\/p>\n

On the fact the conflict in the Middle East is driving up fuel prices in Ireland and elsewhere, Trump said:<\/p>\n

\u201cI have a lot of friends from Ireland. They\u2019re very happy that I\u2019m getting rid of a nuclear power, a nuclear terrorist. And as soon as that war is over – which will be soon – your prices are going to drop like a rock. You watch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"TaoiseachTaoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin denied Europe is \u201coverrun\u201d by immigrants. Photograph: Niall Carson\/PA Wire Trump on immigration – and energy policy – in Europe <\/p>\n

Trump also said Europe \u201cbetter do something\u201d about immigration, and energy policy, or there \u201cwon\u2019t be a Europe\u201d.<\/p>\n

In terms of energy, Trump said \u201cwindmills which don\u2019t work\u201d are \u201cdestroying\u201d landscapes in the UK. <\/p>\n

Martin said Europe is a great place to live. He said no one is in favour of \u201cillegal migration\u201d and denied Europe is \u201coverrun\u201d by immigrants.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn Ireland, our population is growing but in a very positive way,\u201d Martin said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think sometimes Europe gets characterised in terms of it being \u2018overrun\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach said Ireland believes in \u201crobust and fair\u201d rules around immigration.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s much more robust now, a much more stronger mechanism in place to facilitate legal migration, and I think it\u2019s important.\u201d<\/p>\n

Trump seemingly thinks Irish president is male<\/p>\n

When asked about President Catherine Connolly\u2019s recent remarks on Iran – that the recent attacks by the US and Israel were \u201cdeliberate assaults on international law<\/a>\u201d – Trump said: \u201cHe\u2019s lucky I exist, that\u2019s all I can say\u201d – seemingly presuming our president is male.<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause if you\u2019re going to allow countries that are sick and demented – and they are demented – to have nuclear weapons, everybody in the whole world should be very thankful,\u201d Trump said.<\/p>\n

Martin said \u201ceveryone accepts that you cannot have a rogue state with a nuclear weapon\u201d and that Iran was \u201ca sponsor of terrorism\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur hearts go out to the Iranian people who have been repressed and suppressed for so many years.\u201d<\/p>\n

Martin said leaders must work for peace in the Middle East and other places such as Ukraine.<\/p>\n

Trump said the US helped with Ukraine, but the country \u201cdid not help\u201d with Iran.<\/p>\n

Martin defends Starmer<\/p>\n

Martin finally comes in, to defend Starmer.<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach said Starmer was an \u201cearnest, sound person\u201d who helped to \u201creset\u201d the UK-Irish relationship.<\/p>\n

Martin also said there might be a \u201cdifferent perspective\u201d on Churchill in Ireland (after Trump praised him).<\/p>\n

\"HighlightingHighlighting a bust of Winston Churchill in the Oval Office, Donald Trump said: \u201cKeir [Starmer] is not Winston Churchill.\u201d Photograph: Niall Carson\/PA Wire Trump says Starmer is \u2018not Winston Churchill\u2019<\/p>\n

Asked if the lack of support by British prime minister Keir Starmer in Iran has impacted their relationship, Trump said: \u201cI like him, but I\u2019m disappointed in him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Highlighting a bust of Winston Churchill in the Oval Office, Trump said: \u201cKeir is not Winston Churchill.\u201d<\/p>\n

The US prevented \u201cnuclear holocaust\u201d by bombing Iran, Trump claimed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI said Iran was a big threat to this country, to this world of ours, and turned out I was right…<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t let them have a nuclear weapon. If they got a nuclear weapon, I would say they would have used it within 24 hours after having it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Turning to Martin, he said: \u201cI think it would have hit Europe, maybe not Ireland, but it would have hit Europe.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is big enough, you would have been affected.\u201d<\/p>\n

The majority of the questions so far have been related to Iran. Trump has been giving answers, while Martin has not interjected. <\/p>\n

\"TrumpTrump said the US doesn\u2019t need \u201cany help\u201d from its Nato allies in relation to Iran. Photograph: Jim Watson\/AFP via Getty Images Trump says US \u2018doesn\u2019t need help\u2019 from Nato in Iran<\/p>\n

Now talking about Iran, Trump said: \u201cI think Nato is making a very foolish mistake\u201d and the US doesn\u2019t need \u201cany help\u201d from its Nato allies.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll of the Nato allies agreed with us and they don\u2019t want to \u2013 despite the fact that we helped them so much.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have thousands of soldiers in different countries all over the world and they don\u2019t want to help us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Trump wants to visit Doonbeg for Irish Open<\/p>\n

Trump said he will \u201ctry\u201d to visit Ireland for the Amgen Irish Open at the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, Co Clare, in September. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have a great golf complex in Ireland, one of the best in the world, called Doonbeg,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Trump added that golfers \u201call love\u201d the course in Doonbeg, namechecking Rory McIlroy in particular.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverybody wants me to be there. You [Martin] just said, \u2018I hope you\u2019re going to go\u2019,\u201d Trump said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to try. We are going to try. But it would be an honour.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut it was a great honour to be chosen [to host the Open].\u201d<\/p>\n

Martin thanked Trump for his welcome, noting that 45 million people in the US \u201cclaim Irish descent and Irish heritage\u201d.<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach noted that Cork-born Stephen Moylan, who served as aide-de-camp to George Washington during American revolution, is credited with coming up with the phrase United States of America<\/a>. <\/p>\n

Trump enjoys this anecdote, adding that Martin told him 23 US presidents had Irish heritage.<\/p>\n

\"USUS President Donald Trump meets Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin during a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office. Photograph: Jim Watson\/AFP via Getty Images Trump welcomes Martin in Oval Office<\/p>\n

And we\u2019re off…<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach and US president Donald Trump are now meeting in the Oval Office.<\/p>\n

Trump welcomes Miche\u00e1l Martin, noting the \u201ctremendous bonds between Ireland and the United States\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to have some big discussions today concerning trade, concerning lots of different subjects. We have a tremendous trade relationship with Ireland, and we\u2019ll keep it that way. I think it\u2019s going to be expanded very greatly,\u201d Trump said, adding that tariffs may also be discussed (as they were last year).<\/p>\n

While Trump is sharing his thoughts on social media, the St Patrick\u2019s Day events in Washington are currently running almost an hour behind schedule.<\/p>\n

Such events often run a little late, but no reason for today\u2019s delay has been given.<\/p>\n

A recent post by Trump about Iran on Truth Social would suggest the US president is not in the best mood today.<\/p>\n

\"Photograph:Photograph: Truth Social <\/p>\n

In the post<\/a>, shared in the last few minutes, Trump wrote:<\/p>\n

\u201cThe United States has been informed by most of our NATO \u201cAllies\u201d that they don\u2019t want to get involved with our Military Operation against the Terrorist Regime of Iran, in the Middle East, this, despite the fact that almost every Country strongly agreed with what we are doing, and that Iran cannot, in any way, shape, or form, be allowed to have a Nuclear Weapon. <\/p>\n

\u201cI am not surprised by their action, however, because I always considered NATO, where we spend Hundreds of Billions of Dollars per year protecting these same Countries, to be a one way street.\u201d<\/p>\n

Trump said the US \u201cno longer needs or wants NATO\u2019s help (\u201cWE NEVER DID\u201d) and does \u201cNOT NEED THE HELP OF ANYONE!\u201d<\/p>\n

Dan Mulhall, the former ambassador of Ireland to the United States, said the \u201cbonhomie\u201d between Vance and Martin earlier \u201caugurs well for the rest of the day in DC\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cSuggests there\u2019s no ambush being laid for Taoiseach in the Oval Office although mishaps can always happen,\u201d he wrote in a post on X.<\/p>\n

(Yes, he is indeed sharing our live story.)<\/p>\n

The bonhomie between VP Vance & @MichealMartinTD<\/a> augurs well for the rest of the day in DC. Suggests there\u2019s no ambush being laid for Taoiseach in the Oval Office although mishaps can always happen. <\/p>\n

\u2018We love and admire Ireland\u2019, Vance tells Taoiseach\u2019 https:\/\/t.co\/9qf3SR6SLI<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Daniel Mulhall (@DanMulhall) March 17, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

The meeting between Martin and Trump in the Oval Office is imminent.<\/p>\n

While we wait, in case you were wondering, the fountain outside the White House is green today. Mark that off your St Patrick\u2019s Day bingo card. <\/p>\n

The US government is committed to working with Ireland to safeguard \u201cthe shared security\u201d of the two countries, its top diplomat has said.<\/p>\n

In a statement to mark St Patrick\u2019s Day, US secretary of state Marco Rubio also acknowledged Ireland was now the fifth-largest investor in the United States, Public Policy Correspondent Martin Wall reports.<\/p>\n

Rubio said Irish investment supported more than 375,000 American jobs across all 50 states. He also said the United States was \u201ccommitted to advancing fair trade policies that benefit us all\u201d.<\/p>\n

Read the full story here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"NorthernNorthern Ireland’s first minister Michelle O\u2019Neill last month said she could not travel to Washington DC while the US administration was \u201cthreatening to annex and steal\u201d the land of the Palestinian people. Photograph: Liam McBurney\/PA Wire\t <\/p>\n

Northern Ireland\u2019s First Minister Michelle O\u2019Neill and other party leaders were \u201cwrong\u201d to have stayed away from Washington DC on St Patrick\u2019s Day, Stormont\u2019s Communities Minister said.<\/p>\n

Traditionally, political leaders from across the island of Ireland have taken part in events in the United States for the national saint\u2019s day.<\/p>\n

O\u2019Neill and her Sinn F\u00e9in colleagues are boycotting events for a second year in a row in protest at US policy towards Gaza.<\/p>\n

O\u2019Neill last month said she could not live with a decision to travel to Washington DC while the US administration was \u201cthreatening to annex and steal\u201d the land of the Palestinian people.<\/p>\n

DUP MLA Gordon Lyons on Tuesday said leaders \u201cneed to show up\u201d for Northern Ireland.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe First Minister has refused to attend, other political leaders have refused to attend, I think that is wrong, I think that we need to show up,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have been doing this for a number of years, I don\u2019t agree with everything that every incumbent in the White House says or does. I came along when Joe Biden was in office, I certainly didn\u2019t agree with everything that he was doing either, but I come because it is important to engage with the US administration.\u201d<\/p>\n

Alliance leader Naomi Long and SDLP leader Claire Hanna have also stayed away.<\/p>\n

Deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly is leading a Northern Ireland delegation in O\u2019Neill\u2019s absence.<\/p>\n

Education Minister Paul Givan and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, as well as Secretary of State Hilary Benn, UUP leader Jon Burrows and PSNI chief constable Jon Burrows have also travelled to the US capital this week.<\/p>\n

– Press Association<\/p>\n

Top Trump counter-terrorism official resigns over Iran<\/p>\n

The situation in Iran was already likely to feature heavily at the press briefing at the White House today, but now even more so.<\/p>\n

A top counter-terrorism official in the Trump administration has resigned over the ongoing war on Iran. Joe Kent, who reported to director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, said that he \u201ccannot in good conscience\u201d support the joint conflict with Israel. <\/p>\n

In a letter addressed to Donald Trump, Kent praised the president\u2019s foreign policy achievements in his first administration. Noting that Trump was skilled at applying \u201cmilitary power without getting us drawn into never-ending wars\u201d. <\/p>\n

This was exemplified by the \u201ckilling Qasam Solamani and by defeating Isis\u201d, Kent wrote. However, things changed during Trump\u2019s second term in office. <\/p>\n

\u201cEarly in this administration, high-ranking Israeli officials and influential members of the American media deployed a misinformation campaign that wholly undermined your America First platform and sowed pro-war sentiments to encourage a war with Iran,\u201d said Kent, who served as director of the National Counterterrorism Center. <\/p>\n

\u201cThis echo chamber was used to deceive you,\u201d Kent continued, \u201cinto believing that Iran posed an imminent threat to the United States, and that should you strike now, there was a clear path to a swift victory. This was a lie and is the same tactic the Israelis used to draw us into the disastrous Iraq war that cost our nation the lives of thousands of our best men and women. We cannot make this mistake again.\u201d <\/p>\n

Kent, a former CIA operative, was confirmed to his position last July. <\/p>\n

– The Guardian<\/p>\n

\"AnAn Irish flag flying at Blair House, also known as the president\u2019s guest house, in Washington today. Photograph: Pat Leahy <\/p>\n

There are tricolours all over Washington today, including this one at Blair House (which is also known as the president\u2019s guest house).<\/p>\n

What gets served to dignitaries at the Naval Observatory on St Patrick\u2019s Day? Wonder no more, Jack Horgan-Jones has the answer…<\/p>\n

A source with knowledge of the breakfast confirms that Miche\u00e1l Martin and guests were served a corned beef hash and poached egg, alongside raspberry and lemon parfait. The verdict: \u201cVery nice actually\u201d. <\/p>\n

There\u2019s also a goodie bag for guests, with a pint glass and a pair of Donegal socks. Whatever they are.<\/p>\n

\"Then-taoiseachThen-taoiseach Leo Varadkar, US president Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump pose during the shamrock ceremony at the White House on March 15th, 2018. Photograph: Alex Edelman\/Getty Images <\/p>\n

Well, we\u2019re on the run-in, with less than an hour now before the Taoiseach arrives at the White House and then crosses the threshold into the Oval Office, Political Correspondent Jack Horgan-Jones writes.<\/p>\n

But what is it like to be on the inside of the Taoiseach\u2019s close circle at this time? Brian Murphy, former chief of staff to ex-Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, was present on the Oval Office couches for several such meetings. <\/p>\n

On the day itself, he recalls, there\u2019s \u201cvery little time, in truth, because the schedule is very tight\u201d which leaves effectively no time for final preparations or game-planning. <\/p>\n

\u201cSome officials will tell you all sorts of stories about going in with three or four things to talk about,\u201d recalls Murphy – but in the Trump era, \u201cthe truth is you want to get in and out\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe danger point for the Taoiseach is Trump decides to talk about what he perceives as Europe\u2019s unfairness in relation to supporting America,\u201d he says, adding that the US president could \u201ceasily attack European allies\u201d. If he does so, it leaves Martin in a difficult situation: \u201cIf you decide to intervene, it\u2019s almost certainly fatal\u201d – but if you don\u2019t, it looks terrible to a domestic audience. <\/p>\n

Murphy is encouraged by how US vice-president JD Vance welcomed Martin to the Naval Observatory, but says that given Trump\u2019s nature, the tone of the Oval encounter could be \u201cdown to something in the 20 minutes before the meeting takes place\u201d. <\/p>\n

Murphy repeatedly mentions the presence of travelling journalists as a wild card, with the hacks clustered close to the principles in the Oval Office, shouting questions. He reckons Martin would probably have sought the advice of US politicians he met about the mood in the White House in recent days, have focused on getting some sleep last night and not eating too much today. <\/p>\n

But for all the preparation, once they enter the Oval Office, it\u2019s all on the line: \u201cIt\u2019s a pretty unique type of situation. He wouldn\u2019t be human if he didn\u2019t have butterflies.\u201d<\/p>\n

There will be a chance to fine-tune his speech for tonight – a more formal engagement than the chaos of the Oval Office, says Murphy. This may be where the Taoiseach chooses to land a message on the war in Iran designed for domestic consumption. <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to poke the bear, but it will be expected by people at home that he will say something,\u201d says Murphy. <\/p>\n

\u201cThe (Irish) embassy will be saying \u2018oh you don\u2019t need to say anything like that\u2019, but the truth is that is the expectation at home, and that is his key audience – the country at home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Thank you \u2066@VP<\/a>\u2069 JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance for your warm welcome on St. Patrick\u2019s Day. \u2618\ufe0f<\/p>\n

Today, as we look forward to the 250th anniversary of US independence, we celebrate the past, present and future of our enduring friendship. \ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf8 \ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddea pic.twitter.com\/qXho23oEb8<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Miche\u00e1l Martin (@MichealMartinTD) March 17, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

In the official visitors\u2019 book, the Taoiseach thanked the Vances for their \u201cgenerosity and hospitality\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cMay the strong economic, people to people, and cultural ties that bind the United States and Ireland continue to endure for generations to come,\u201d Miche\u00e1l Martin wrote.<\/p>\n

\"InIn the official visitors\u2019 book, the Taoiseach thanked the Vances for their \u201cgenerosity and hospitality\u201d. Photograph: Pat Leahy Taoiseach thanks Vance for warm welcome\"TaoiseachTaoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin and his wife Mary O’Shea are greeted by US vice-president JD Vance and his wife Usha Vance before a breakfast at the Naval Observatory in Washington. Photograph: Roberto Schmidt\/AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

More on the exchange between Martin and Vance from our Political Correspondent Jack Horgan-Jones:<\/p>\n

The official St Patrick\u2019s Day programme of events in Washington is under way, with the Taoiseach attending a breakfast hosted by US vice-president JD Vance in his residency, the Naval Observatory. <\/p>\n

This marks Miche\u00e1l Martin\u2019s first speaking engagement of the day – and it was a pretty uncontroversial outing, with both the Taoiseach and Vance leaning into the depth of Irish-American cultural relations in front of the cameras (before they were booted out). <\/p>\n

Martin told the vice-president he was deeply touched by the warmth of the welcome, before a brief survey of Irish-American links to the War of Independence (the American one) era. He mentioned Commodore John Barry, commonly known as the father of the US Navy; John Moylan, who supposedly coined the name United States of America; and Irish-born founding father Charles Thomson.<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach told the gathering that Irish-Americans were known for \u201cboth their loyalty to America and their enduring links to their ancestral homeland\u201d, adding that just one other country was named in the Irish proclamation of independence – the US. <\/p>\n

Unsurprisingly, he mentioned the contribution of Irish-Americans to US history and their roles as firefighters, police officers, nurses, farmers and presidents. \u201cOur exiled children from all the rich and diverse traditions across our island have made their mark on this proud land,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

He also paid tribute to American support for the peace process, saying: \u201cAt the darkest, bleakest of times, you, all of you in this room, kept the faith,\u201d before encouraging Vance and his wife Usha to visit Ireland in the near future. <\/p>\n

Republican senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska gave a blessing before the breakfast (Vance blessed himself; the Taoiseach did not), including an invocation for divine protection for the US military \u201cundertaking dangerous duty on behalf of the nation they love\u201d.<\/p>\n

\"TheThe Taoiseach congratulated JD Vance and his wife Usha on the news they are expecting their fourth child. Photograph: Niall Carson\/PA Wire <\/p>\n

The Taoiseach thanked Vance and his wife Usha \u201cmost sincerely\u201d for their welcome.<\/p>\n

Miche\u00e1l Martin said he and his wife Mary \u201cwere deeply touched by the warmth of your welcome and generosity of your hospitality\u201d last year.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs we gather to celebrate Saint Patrick\u2019s Day 2026, we also look ahead to July the 4th, when this great nation will mark the 250th anniversary of your independence.\u201d<\/p>\n

Martin congratulated Vance and his wife Usha on the news they are expecting their fourth child, and presented him with a special edition of James Joyce\u2019s Ulysses, Political Editor Pat Leahy reports.<\/p>\n

Vance says US cherishes \u2018incredible\u2019 friendship with Ireland\"'All‘All of us in America – most of us, at least – have somebody who has this deep connection to that island on the other side of the Atlantic,’ US vice-president JD Vance said. Photograph: Niall Carson\/PA Wire <\/p>\n

Speaking at a breakfast meeting in Washington with Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin and other officials, US vice-president JD Vance noted the enduring relationship between the United States and Ireland.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll of us in America – most of us, at least – have somebody who has this deep connection to that island on the other side of the Atlantic,\u201d Vance said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe love it, and we admire it, and we cherish the incredible friendships that we have, and the great things that Ireland has done for the United States of America.\u201d<\/p>\n

.@VP<\/a>: “To all of Ireland, to all of our wonderful Irish Americans \u2014 and to everybody who just loves an Irish American \u2014 happy St. Patrick’s Day.” \ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\udf40\ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf8 pic.twitter.com\/AFnFdLVo2n<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 17, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Referencing the shamrock socks he wore at the White House for last year\u2019s St Patrick\u2019s Day event, Vance said he today opted to wear something \u201cslightly more muted\u201d.<\/p>\n

More on the theme of socks, he said there were \u201cDonegal-style wool socks\u201d in the gift bag for guests.<\/p>\n

On a more serious note, Vance told Martin: \u201cWe are thrilled to have you, very, very grateful for your friendship and very, very grateful for everything that unites the people of Ireland with the United States of America.\u201d<\/p>\n

Turning to the Middle East for a moment, Israel on Tuesday claimed to have killed Iran\u2019s security chief Ali Larijani<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Also, a senior Iranian official said the country\u2019s new supreme leader had rejected de-escalation offers conveyed by intermediaries, demanding Israel and the US first be \u201cbrought \u200cto their knees\u201d.<\/p>\n

The senior official said two intermediary countries had conveyed proposals to Iran\u2019s foreign ministry for \u201creducing tensions or ceasefire with the United States\u201d. The official did not give further details of the proposals or the intermediaries.<\/p>\n

Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who \u200bheld his first foreign policy session since being named supreme leader, had responded that it was not \u201cthe right time for peace until the United States and Israel are brought to their knees, accept defeat, and pay compensation\u201d, the official said.<\/p>\n

He did not clarify whether Khamenei, who has not yet been pictured since being named last week to replace his slain father, had attended the meeting in person or remotely.<\/p>\n

The US-Israeli war on Iran is now in its third week, with at least 2,000 people killed and no end in sight.<\/p>\n

The \u200bStrait of Hormuz remains largely closed off and US allies have rebuffed US president Donald Trump\u2019s calls for them to help to reopen the vital waterway, through which about 20 per cent of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows.<\/p>\n

– Reuters<\/p>\n

Before travelling to Washington, the Taoiseach took part in the Philadelphia St Patrick\u2019s Day parade on Sunday. <\/p>\n

\u201cThe strength and vibrancy of the Irish-American community here, and the welcome they\u2019ve given, has been incredible,\u201d he said in a post on X.<\/p>\n

Many people are eager to see the type of welcome Miche\u00e1l Martin will receive in the White House today. <\/p>\n

An absolute pleasure to take part in the Philadelphia St. Patrick\u2019s Day parade. \u2618\ufe0f<\/p>\n

The strength and vibrancy of the Irish-American community here, and the welcome they\u2019ve given, has been incredible. \ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf8 pic.twitter.com\/z4al7jWvUf<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Miche\u00e1l Martin (@MichealMartinTD) March 15, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

As we await the start of the festivities across the pond, here is some interesting reading from Political Correspondent Jack Horgan-Jones and Political Editor Pat Leahy.<\/p>\n

Donald Trump\u2019s ambassador to Ireland warned the Government last year that businesses had begun moving their future investments out of Ireland<\/a>.<\/p>\n

As Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin attended a day of events intended to promote US-Ireland business links in Washington on Monday, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) files released under freedom-of-information laws showed that during a meeting with T\u00e1naiste Simon Harris last July, US ambassador Edward S Walsh \u201creferred to contacts in business who are moving their investment pipeline out of Ireland\u201d.<\/p>\n

The documents, drawn up by Irish officials, show that Walsh told Harris, then minister for foreign affairs, this included \u201cdata centres due to future energy needs\u201d and that he \u201calso referred to planning-related challenges\u201d.<\/p>\n

In response, the T\u00e1naiste told Walsh that Ireland was developing a new liquefied natural gas facility, and flagged reforms to planning laws.<\/p>\n

Read the full story here<\/a>. <\/p>\n

Martin praises \u2018enduring bond\u2019 between Ireland and US<\/p>\n

Ahead of his meeting with Trump, the Taoiseach has attended a number of events and he was cheered on Sunday at an event at the residence of Ireland\u2019s Ambassador to the US as he congratulated the nation\u2019s rugby team on winning the Six Nations Triple Crown at the weekend.<\/p>\n

At that event Martin described being back in Washington, DC, for St Patrick\u2019s Day as an honour.<\/p>\n

\"TaoiseachTaoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin speaking during the Ireland Funds National Gala at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC, on Monday. Photograph: Niall Carson\/PA <\/p>\n

He joked he would add his thanks to England for \u201cdoing their very, very best to enable us to win the championship\u201d, with reference to their narrow defeat to France, which saw Ireland miss out on the Six Nations title with the final kick of the competition. <\/p>\n

Martin arrived in the US capital on Sunday evening following two days in Philadelphia, where he was marking the contribution of Irish people to the building of the country 250 years on from the signing of the US Declaration of Independence.<\/p>\n

Editorial: Peril in the court of the mad king<\/p>\n

The political sensitivities of a meeting with Trump are laid out in an Irish Times Editorial.<\/p>\n

\u201cDespite calls from some members of the Opposition for Martin to speak out against the war during his trip, that seems improbable. There have already been some careful words about the merits of negotiation and diplomacy, but there is little prospect of the Taoiseach being drawn on the legality of the campaign<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\u201cPresident Connolly\u2019s statement eight days ago condemning the conflict as a violation of international law will not be echoed in the Oval Office, nor at any of the other celebratory events over the course of the day. As the Government made clear last week, it bears sole responsibility for how the State conducts its foreign policy.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe calculation is that there is little to be gained and much to lose from provoking the unpredictable occupant of the White House. Those who decry this as moral cowardice are generally not faced with making the very real and consequential choices confronting the leader of a small country unusually dependent on its economic relationship with the US.\u201d <\/p>\n

Dressing-down of Volodymyr Zelenskiy <\/p>\n

The notorious dressing-down of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy in the White House in February 2025 has solidified into a sort of behavioural coda for all heads of state entering the bear pit of the Trump Oval Office, writes Keith Duggan<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The message was made clear to all visiting dignitaries that day: you don\u2019t have the cards, you listen more than you speak. And when you speak, best say only nice things.<\/p>\n

You enter US president Donald Trump\u2019s orbit, which is to perform a limited cameo role \u2013 with few lines \u2013 in the rolling reality television show that is the 47th presidency.<\/p>\n

Read the full article here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Martin to meet Trump at White House<\/p>\n

Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin is preparing for a bilateral meeting with US president Donald Trump this afternoon.<\/p>\n

The Taoiseach will also meet US vice-president JD Vance as part of the leader of Ireland\u2019s traditional visit to Washington, DC.<\/p>\n

In terms of logistics, Martin is due to meet Vance for breakfast at around at 1pm (Irish time), before meeting Trump at the White House at 3pm (Irish time). Martin will then head to the US Congress for a formal lunch at 5pm (Irish time), before the shamrock ceremony at about 9.20pm (Irish time).<\/p>\n

Martin\u2019s Oval Office encounter with Trump is expected to touch on a range of topics, including \u201cdeep ties\u201d between the two countries.<\/p>\n

Last year\u2019s meeting saw the US president take questions from reporters for almost an hour.<\/p>\n

However, the Taoiseach has faced criticism from some quarters about meeting with Trump following the US and Israel\u2019s attack on Iran.<\/p>\n