President Trump Hosts Irish Prime Minister amid Trade Tensions

President Trump welcomed Micheál Martin, the Prime Minister of Ireland, to the White House on Wednesday. This annual visit, amidst the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, came at a time when tensions over trade with Europe were looming in the background.

Washington, decked out in green for the occasion, celebrated Mr. Martin’s traditional visit. Despite the festivities, President Trump showed no signs of retreating from his contentious actions that have strained the trans-Atlantic relationship.

While sitting alongside Mr. Martin in the Oval Office, President Trump criticized the European Union’s trade practices and how they regulate American businesses.

“The European Union has been treating us unfairly for a long time,” he declared.

Throughout the meeting, Mr. Martin remained reserved, mindful to avoid the kind of confrontation that occurred two weeks prior when President Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of ingratitude for American support.

Three Takeaways from Mr. Martin’s Visit

Trump’s Firm Stance on Tariffs

The stock market has taken a hit, business leaders have expressed concerns privately, and even some Republicans are uneasy. Yet, President Trump announced on Wednesday he had no intention of altering his broad tariff policies.

In fact, he hinted at possibly imposing harsher tariffs in response to the European Union’s planned retaliatory tariffs.

“I will definitely respond,” he stated.

Moreover, he accused Ireland of taking advantage of the U.S., lamenting the trade imbalance between both nations.

Martin Seeks to Stay on Trump’s Good Side

Post Mr. Trump’s clash with Mr. Zelensky, Mr. Martin was careful to avoid provoking President Trump or Vice President JD Vance, also present at the meeting. While there are significant disagreements, particularly on trade and conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, Mr. Martin aimed for harmony.

When asked if he planned to discuss Ireland’s view on the Israel-Gaza conflict with President Trump, Mr. Martin responded: “The president is more than familiar with the entire situation. We value the president’s tireless call for peace.”

When President Trump criticized Ireland for attracting U.S. pharmaceutical companies with tax incentives, Mr. Martin highlighted Irish investment in the U.S., noting that Irish airlines Ryanair and AerCap are major buyers of Boeing aircraft.

“It’s indeed a two-way street,” he remarked, to which Trump replied, seemingly unenthused, “That’s good.”

Trump Shifts to Familiar Topics: Golf, Fighters, and Feuds

Despite his criticisms of the European Union, President Trump took the opportunity to promote his hotel and golf course expansion efforts in Ireland. He used the discussion to highlight his family business’s acclaim.

“It’s among the most highly rated hotels in Europe,” he boasted about Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg.

Mr. Martin graciously pivoted to commend President Trump’s investment in Ireland, calling it “stunning.”

“I love this guy,” Trump responded to the flattery.

When asked to name his favorite Irish person, President Trump praised Conor McGregor, a renowned mixed martial arts fighter, though McGregor’s legal troubles might not sit well with everyone in Ireland.

“I do like your fighter,” Trump commented. “His tattoos are the best I’ve seen.”

Finally, President Trump couldn’t resist a quip about Rosie O’Donnell. When asked why Ireland allowed Ms. O’Donnell to relocate there, Mr. Martin seemed nonchalant.

“You’re better off not knowing who she is,” Trump remarked with a smile.

Megan Specia contributed reporting from London.