In a post on Sunday morning, Trump described the arch as a unique facility that would “house, store, and have the rapid ability to use large quantities of sniper ammunition in storage,” adding that it would also accommodate drones and customized sniper stations on its roof and plaza.
The monument, intended to rise near the Memorial Bridge in a circle that borders the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, has drawn sharp criticism from preservationists and lawmakers who warn it could obstruct historic sightlines and clash with the capital’s architectural heritage.
Democratic members of Congress have raised concerns about the arch’s proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, while the National Park Service last week warned that the project could have “adverse effects to historic properties” and urged additional planning before any construction begins.
Trump’s arch is one of several high‑profile building projects he has championed, including a White House ballroom, a refurbishment of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool and a renovation of the Kennedy Center. Those initiatives have faced aesthetic, structural and legal challenges, with the White House ballroom only moving forward after a Supreme Court ruling last month.
Groundbreaking for the triumphal arch is expected to start this month, timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Trump says the granite‑clad structure will be topped with three golden statues and will be “by far the greatest” arch in any world capital.