Ireland will raise both Ukraine and Gaza with Donald Trump during White House meeting, Taoiseach tells Dail
Briefly

Taoiseach Micheál Martin is set to meet with President Trump, where he will discuss critical issues surrounding Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing the need for sustainable peace. He highlights the long-standing relationship between the US and Ireland, coinciding with St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Meanwhile, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, who opted out of the Washington visit, argues that peace cannot be achieved through military investments, criticizing a proposed €800 billion defense spending linked to the EU's military objectives. This highlights ongoing tensions regarding the direction of international relations and defense policies.
Mr Martin emphasized the importance of a lasting peace settlement in Ukraine, reflecting concerns that President Trump's perspective may prioritize short-term solutions over lasting ones.
Mary Lou McDonald criticized investments in war, suggesting that true peace cannot be achieved if resources are diverted to military spending, linking to broader EU defense spending.
The Taoiseach reiterated the historical significance of the US-Ireland relationship, highlighting St. Patrick’s Day as an opportunity to celebrate their deep ties and the diaspora.
The economic relationship between the US and Ireland was underscored as vital, with Mr Martin emphasizing Ireland's openness to free trade in discussions with President Trump.
Read at Irish Independent
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