Trump Faces Criticism Over National Security Case for Washington Arch

President Donald Trump is facing criticism over plans to turn a proposed 250-foot (76-meter) triumphal arch near Washington into a military facility, with opponents accusing his administration of creating a national security justification for the project.

Trump said the arch would house and rapidly deploy drones and accommodate snipers and ammunition storage. Nicolas Sansone, an attorney representing groups challenging the project, said Congress had not authorized the structure and that the national security argument did not resolve its legal problems.

Democratic Rep. Don Beyer of Virginia also questioned the plan, saying drone operations near an airport could be dangerous and impractical. He suggested the national security rationale could be intended to strengthen the administration’s position in court.

The arch is part of Trump’s broader plans to reshape Washington, including renovations to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and changes to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Preservationists have criticized the projects over their potential impact on historic landmarks.

Separately, Trump is expected to meet New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani during his visit to New York for the U.N. General Assembly. He has also announced plans for an artificial intelligence czar and an “AI Force.”

China confirmed that President Xi Jinping will visit the United States this week for talks with Trump on trade, artificial intelligence and broader strategic issues.

Source: The Guardian