President Donald Trump said Sunday that his planned triumphal arch near the Arlington Memorial Bridge will be converted into a military complex capable of housing drones, deploying snipers and storing ammunition."At the strong request of the United States Military, and for National Security purposes, I have agreed to convert the magnificent Triumphal Arch … into a top grade Military Complex/Triumphal Arch," Trump wrote on Truth Social.TRUMP REVEALS ARC DE TRIOMPHE-STYLE MONUMENT FOR AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARYTrump’s planned triumphal arch near Arlington Memorial Bridge is expected to stand 250 feet tall and feature three golden statues.(Interior Department)Trump said the 250-foot structure would have the "rapid ability" to deploy large numbers of drones, as well as snipers positioned on the roof and plaza areas.
He also said the complex would store "large quantities of sniper ammunition.""There will be no facility like this anywhere in the World," Trump wrote.The monument, inspired by Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, is intended to welcome visitors crossing the Memorial Bridge from Arlington National Cemetery into the nation’s capital.The proposed structure would be clad in granite and topped with three golden statues.FROM THE GILDED OVAL OFFICE TO A NEW BALLROOM: A LOOK AT TRUMP'S WHITE HOUSE PROJECTSA model of President Donald Trump's proposed triumphal arch to commemorate the country’s 250th anniversary is seen on the Resolute Desk on October 15, 2025 in Washington, DC.
(Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)The project has drawn criticism from preservationists, lawmakers and veterans, who argue that it could disrupt views of the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.Opponents have also questioned whether the project requires congressional approval under federal law.The National Capital Planning Commission has approved the site and preliminary plans, but the project still requires additional review.
Construction was previously expected to begin this month....