Trump's D.C. arch is now a military complex. Here's how that complicates things

National Guard Members walk near a replica of President Trump's proposed arch at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, DC, in July. Kent Nishimura/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

President Trump's weekend announcement that his proposed D.C. arch will double as a " top grade Military Complex " has raised even more questions about the controversial structure — and the already-fraught approval process.

Trump wrote Sunday on Truth Social that the 250-foot structure will "house, store, and have the rapid ability to use large numbers of drones, plus Snipers, on both the roof and plaza areas," in addition to storing ammunition.

It's a far cry from the administration's original vision for the arch, which Trump first unveiled last October.

At the time, he told journalists it was being built to honor "me." The administration has since characterized it as a tribute to the United States' 250th anniversary and a tourist attraction.

"The Triumphal Arch in Memorial Circle is going to be one of the most iconic landmarks not only in Washington, D.C., but throughout the world," the White House has repeatedly told NPR, as recently as Tuesday.

National Park Service renderings and presentations touted an observation deck with views of Arlington National Cemetery and the National Mall, potentially including a cafe and gift shop. Those were approved by the Trump-packed Commission of Fine Arts in May.

But the word "military" did not surface until earlier this month, when Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced on social media that excavation work would soon begin at the "Great Triumphal Arch and Military Observation Deck."