UK breakup push escalates amid historic pact after Trump backs reunification of Ireland

Leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland called on the British government on Monday to prepare for and facilitate constitutional change that could lead to the breakup of the United Kingdom. In a historic joint declaration issued in Cardiff, Scottish First Minister John Swinney, Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth and Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill stated that "Westminster’s time is coming to an end." The nationalist leaders met to strengthen cooperation and advance what they described as constitutional change. The move follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who during a visit to Dublin expressed support for Irish reunification, stating that merging Northern Ireland with the Republic of Ireland seemed "natural." In response, a spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the Prime Minister remains committed to the Union and is focused on easing household financial pressures rather than engaging in constitutional debates or further referendums. Michelle O’Neill, speaking at a press conference, asserted that Westminster would never serve their people well and that Prime Minister Burnham would be unable to "hold back the tide" of nationalism. The memorandum of understanding signed by the leaders commits the parties to cooperation on economic policy, renewable energy and rebuilding ties with the European Union.