President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to Ireland is set to spark significant unrest, with tens of thousands of protesters planning to take to the streets of Dublin. As the former President meets with Irish officials and prepares for a round of golf at his Doonbeg resort, local leaders are voicing their dissent in a manner that could be especially pointed.

Scheduled for next weekend, Trump’s trip is anticipated to be met with robust demonstrations. Dublin’s residents and activists are mobilizing under the banner “No Welcome for Trump,” organizing protests throughout the city.

“There will be very large protests against Donald Trump,” said Paul Murphy, a member of the Irish parliament and a long-time critic of the former President. “He is arguably the most despised political figure worldwide amongst the Irish population.” Murphy emphasized that Trump represents many of the concerns Irish citizens have about global and domestic issues.

Alongside Murphy is Sara O’Rourke, head of the Irish Neutrality League, who echoes the sentiment. “We wouldn’t invite Putin with a red carpet, and we don’t think Trump should be welcomed in an official state capacity,” O’Rourke stated, underscoring the gravity of the protests that are expected to unfold.

While protests loom large, logistical measures are being taken to shield Trump from the anticipated backlash. Street closures and air transport between venues aim to isolate him from the throngs of dissenting voices. However, he cannot escape a crucial encounter with a prominent critic.

Ireland’s President, Catherine Connolly, is one of the officials expected to greet Trump during his visit. Connolly has been openly critical of Trump, labeling him a “bully” and condemning various aspects of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East.

Murphy and O’Rourke predict that Connolly will seize the moment to express her discontent directly to Trump. “She won’t mince words,” O’Rourke remarked. “If she has a chance to speak, it will be about peace and diplomacy, principles that are very important to her.”

Connolly, who participated in protests against Trump during his last official visit in 2019, has not shied away from controversy. Her critique of Trump’s stances on issues such as Palestine could make for a compelling and potentially confrontational meeting.

The former President’s apparent lack of awareness of Connolly’s role has raised eyebrows. O’Rourke noted that Trump’s previous comments misidentified Connolly, suggesting a disconnect between the President and Irish political dynamics.

“I wonder how well informed he is,” O’Rourke quipped, pointing to Trump’s recent misgendering of Connolly as evidence of his obliviousness. “It indicates he might not have been briefed properly ahead of the meeting.”

Murphy added to this analysis, recalling a moment when Trump appeared unaware of Connolly’s criticisms during a past event, dismissing her concerns. The potential for a clash between Trump and Connolly is palpable as the two prepare to face each other.

As Trump arrives in Dublin, security measures in the capital will be tightened. Phoenix Park, which houses the official residence of the Irish president, will be closed to the public for the duration of his visit, alongside other public areas.

The “No Welcome For Trump” protests are set to commence at Dublin’s Garden of Remembrance, eventually making their way through the heart of the city. Activists aim to deliver a clear message to the visiting leader.

Protests are also planned at Trump’s Doonbeg resort in County Clare and Shannon Airport, where U.S. military aircraft frequently land. These heightened tensions reflect broader sentiments among the Irish public regarding Trump’s presidency.

Dublin is bracing for a potential showdown, not just between protestors and security forces, but between Trump and those willing to challenge him directly. The atmosphere in the city is charged, with deep symbolism tied to the George Floyd protests that sparked global outrage just a few years prior.

In this context, Trump’s visit may not just be a standard diplomatic engagement, but an encounter rife with political overtones and public sentiment. As the former president navigates this fraught landscape, the implications of his trip may resonate well beyond the streets of Dublin.

With his arrival only days away, how this confrontation unfolds remains to be seen. While Trump’s supporters may rally around him, a significant faction within Ireland is poised to ensure that their voice is heard loud and clear.

As the protests loom large, the question remains: will Trump engage with the criticism head-on, or will he sidestep direct confrontation in favor of lighter engagements? The world will be watching closely.