US President Donald Trump has publicly admired India's iconic war memorial, India Gate, while vigorously renewing his ambitious proposal to construct what he describes as the world's "greatest" triumphal arch in Washington, DC. This monumental project forms a crucial part of Trump's broader vision to reshape the American capital in preparation for the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations.
Trump's Vision for a Grand Monument
In a recent post on his Truth Social platform dated February 2, 2026, Trump explicitly referenced India's architectural marvel, writing, "India's beautiful Triumphal Arch. Ours will be the greatest of them all!" This statement underscores his determination to create a landmark that surpasses existing triumphal arches globally, including the renowned Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
'Biggest One of All' Ambition
Speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One just a day earlier, Trump elaborated on his vision, asserting that Washington, DC, deserves the "biggest one of all." He emphasized America's status as "the biggest and most powerful nation," highlighting that nearly 57 cities worldwide boast triumphal arches, yet the US capital remains conspicuously without one. According to Trump, plans for such an arch have been discussed for over two centuries, and he aims to finally bring this idea to fruition.
Arc de Trump: From Concept to Reality
Trump initially unveiled this proposal in October 2025, suggesting the construction of a triumphal arch opposite the Lincoln Memorial to commemorate the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. Supporters have affectionately dubbed the project the "Arc de Trump." While specific details regarding the final cost and construction timeline remain undisclosed, the monument is expected to be privately funded by Trump's loyal supporters.
Architectural Inspiration and Placement
The proposed arch draws direct inspiration from Paris's Arc de Triomphe and is strategically planned to welcome visitors entering Washington from Arlington National Cemetery via the Memorial Bridge. Trump has shared architectural renderings during Oval Office meetings, depicting the arch positioned on the Virginia side of the Potomac River, though the final structure will likely occupy federal land within Washington's boundaries. He remarked to donors, "Every time somebody rides over that beautiful bridge to the Lincoln Memorial, they literally say something is supposed to be here."
India Reference Echoed by US Envoy
Trump's appreciation for India Gate was notably echoed by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor during his arrival speech in India on January 12, 2026. Gor conveyed Trump's warm wishes to the Indian people and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mentioning, "I'd just driven past the beautiful India Gate." He further commented on Trump's architectural ambitions, stating, "The president has embarked on building a ballroom at the White House, but one of the additional projects that's on his list is building something similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. And no offense to the French, but I think what we have here in Delhi might have even surpassed that."
Part of a Broader Washington Overhaul
The triumphal arch proposal is integrated into a comprehensive second-term plan to transform Washington, DC. This extensive overhaul includes a gilded renovation of the White House, paving over the Rose Garden, constructing a $250 million ballroom, and addressing homeless encampments across the capital. Although plans for the arch are still evolving, Trump has consistently indicated that this monument will serve as a centerpiece of his vision for Washington as the country approaches its historic 250th anniversary milestone.
