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Trump Announces Military Conversion for Planned D.C. Arch

Published 20 September 2026

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that his planned triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., will be converted into a military complex capable of housing drones, snipers, and storing ammunition. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated the decision was made at the strong request of the U.S. military for national security purposes. The proposed 250-foot arch, intended to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary, is located near Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. Trump described it as a "top grade Military Complex" that would have the rapid ability to deploy large numbers of drones and position snipers on the roof and plaza areas, along with storing sniper ammunition. He claimed there would be no facility like it anywhere in the world. A U.S. military official told Reuters that the Defense Department had nothing to add beyond Trump's social media post. The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Trump did not elaborate on the specific threats or operational needs justifying the military functions. The announcement has intensified existing opposition to the arch project.

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