Trump defends potential $400 million Qatar plane offer

The former US president commented on Qatar's proposal to temporarily transfer a Boeing 747-8 to replace the outdated Air Force One.

May 12, 2025 - 14:50
May 12, 2025 - 14:53
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Trump defends potential $400 million Qatar plane offer
Photo taken from public sources

Former US President Donald Trump issued a statement in response to discussions over a possible donation of a $400 million Boeing 747-8 by the Qatari royal family. In recent days, the issue has sparked controversy over possible violations of US constitutional and ethical standards. In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump described the deal as transparent and public, criticizing opponents for questioning its legality.

According to Trump, the plane was intended as a temporary replacement for the aging Air Force One, which has been in service for over 40 years. He stressed that the Department of Defense would receive the aircraft at no cost to US taxpayers. Trump added that the plane was planned to be transferred to a presidential library foundation after his term ends.

The offer emerged amid delays in the production of new Air Force One jets by Boeing in the US. However, the proposal raised legal concerns. Under the US Constitution, the president cannot accept gifts from foreign governments without congressional approval. Some legal experts and activists claimed the deal could violate this clause.

The information was first reported by ABC News. Later, Qatari Embassy spokesman Ali Al-Ansari partially denied the report, calling it inaccurate, but confirmed the issue was under review by the legal teams of both sides. The White House declined to comment.

The reaction in the US has been mixed. Some Trump supporters, including activist Laura Loomer, expressed concerns about reputational risks, describing the deal as potentially damaging and as possibly being perceived as an attempt by Qatar to gain influence over the US administration. Former White House ethics chief Norm Eisen also criticized the move, pointing to potential constitutional conflicts.

According to The New York Times, Trump personally inspected the Boeing 747-8 in February at Palm Beach International Airport. The aircraft, which is just over ten years old, is considered one of the most luxurious private airliners in the world, equipped with relaxation zones, meeting rooms, and advanced security systems.

Trump's upcoming trips to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE have also attracted attention. Some observers linked these visits to possible business interests of the Trump Organization in the region, further intensifying scrutiny over the plane issue.

The situation remains closely monitored by the public and legal experts. No final decision has yet been made on whether and under what terms the plane might be transferred.

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ALTN.News Сетевое издание «Интернет ресурс ALTN News - (https://altn.news) Свидетельство о постановке на учет периодического печатного издания, информационного агентства и сетевого издания № KZ32VPY00091991 выдано 26.04.2024 г. Комитетом информации Министерства культуры и информации Республики Казахстан.