Trump plans to begin building giant triumphal arch without final approval

The Trump administration plans to start digging for a 76-meter triumphal arch in Washington within two weeks, even though the project still lacks final approval.

The announcement has come amid legal disputes over the monument. The National Capital Planning Commission is still considering whether to grant an exception to Washington's usual building-height limit of about 40 meters. Critics argue in a lawsuit that the arch would disrupt the capital's historic sightlines and say the project would require congressional approval.

Supporters describe the structure as a tribute to American veterans. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum wrote on X: "This will be one of the great masterpieces of American architecture, worthy of the greatest capital in the world."

The arch is planned for a traffic circle between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. It would resemble the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and, if completed, would be the world's largest triumphal arch, surpassing Mexico City's 67-meter Monumento a la Revolución.

Design images show a white arch topped by a golden, winged figure holding a torch, resembling the Statue of Liberty, with golden eagles spreading their wings. Construction is expected to take two to three years, with work planned for 20 hours a day. Trump has also pursued other projects intended to leave an architectural mark on Washington, including a new White House ballroom, renovation of the pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial and redevelopment of the golf course at East Potomac Park.

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This will be one of the great masterpieces of American architecture, worthy of the greatest capital in the world.