Trump: "Washington Triumphal Arch Construction to Begin Within Two Months"

"June 14 White House UFC Event
Only the Top Fighters Will Compete"

President Donald Trump of the United States announced that construction of the "Washington Triumphal Arch," which will be erected in the nation's capital, Washington DC, will begin within the next two months.

Donald Trump, President of the United States, is announcing plans to build a triumphal arch in Washington DC during a dinner speech for donors to the new banquet hall construction held at the White House in Washington DC last October. Photo by AP Yonhap News

In an interview with the US political media outlet Politico on December 31 (local time), President Trump said of the Washington Triumphal Arch, "It hasn't started yet. It will begin at some point within the next two months," adding, "It will be wonderful. Everyone loves it." The construction of this arch, which will resemble the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, is one of the Trump administration's flagship projects to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States this year.

President Trump has publicly unveiled models of the arch over the past several months, signaling the construction plans. Candidate sites for the arch include prominent tourist attractions in Washington DC, such as the Lincoln Memorial or the area near Arlington National Cemetery.

President Trump envisions the Washington Triumphal Arch as a patriotic landmark honoring American history and the dedication of US servicemembers. However, concerns have been raised regarding the construction costs, the aesthetic completeness, and whether the administration has the authority to pursue such a large-scale project in the capital.

Additionally, President Trump commented on the upcoming mixed martial arts (UFC) event to be held at the White House on June 14, stating, "There could be many matches, about 10 or so." He added that the fighters will be selected by Dana White, his longtime supporter and the president of UFC. President Trump said, "He (Dana) will pick only the very best fighters, and all of them will be championship matches," adding, "It will probably be the greatest ever. It will be truly amazing."

June 14 is both Flag Day in the United States and President Trump's birthday. On November 18, he announced the establishment of "Freedom 250," a nationwide nonpartisan organization to prepare for the 250th anniversary celebrations, through a YouTube video, and revealed plans for the construction of the Washington Triumphal Arch and the hosting of the UFC event at the White House.