Washington, 1 February 2026 (dpa/MIA) - US President Donald Trump has elaborated on his idea for a triumphal arch in Washington, describing a vast structure inspired by the famous monument in Paris.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One late on Saturday, the US president said the planned structure would resemble the Arc de Triomphe.

Triumphal arches could be found in many places around the world, Trump said, adding that he wanted the one in Washington to be the largest.

"We're the biggest, most powerful nation. I'd like it to be the biggest one of them," he said, adding that a committee would be set up to oversee the project.

The triumphal arch would be the latest in a series of architectural projects with which Trump aims to leave his mark on Washington. Construction is currently under way on an opulent ballroom on the White House grounds, for which the building's old East Wing was demolished – a move that drew criticism.

According to a report by the Washington Post, one plan envisages the triumphal arch reaching a height of 76 metres. The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, completed in 1836, stands about 50 metres tall.

Architectural experts have criticized the proposed height of the Washington arch, the newspaper said, arguing that it would not fit in with the surrounding buildings.

At the same time, the report noted that some historians support the idea of a triumphal arch in the US capital. Trump did not give a timeline for the project.

Trump first floated the idea of the arch in October. US media have since dubbed it the "Arc de Trump."

Last week, Trump posted three different designs for the arch on his platform Truth Social, including one featuring extensive gold embellishments – a hallmark of his style. Trump has previously redecorated the Oval Office with gold accents.

Photo: archive