Washington DC, US – United States President Donald Trump has defended plans to accept a luxury aircraft reportedly gifted by Qatar’s royal family, despite growing criticism from political opponents and commentators across the spectrum. The controversy, which erupted following a report by ABC News, centres on a Boeing 747-8 jet said to be valued at approximately $400 million.

Described as a ‘flying palace,’ the aircraft is intended to replace the current Air Force One. It is widely considered one of the most expensive gifts ever offered to the United States government, prompting accusations of constitutional violations and potential conflicts of interest.

In a statement shared via social media on Sunday evening, President Trump appeared to confirm the reports without explicitly naming Qatar. He characterised the arrangement as a temporary ‘gift’ that would ultimately be transferred to the Department of Defense. The president dismissed opposition criticism, claiming it was politically motivated and financially irresponsible.

“They insist we pay, TOP DOLLAR, for the plane,” Trump wrote. “Anybody can do that! The Dems are World Class Losers!!!”

The president is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates between Tuesday and Thursday. The timing of the trip has further fuelled speculation surrounding the aircraft donation.

Critics, including figures from both the Democratic and Republican parties, have expressed concern that accepting such a gift could violate long-standing U.S. ethics laws and constitutional provisions. The U.S. Constitution forbids federal officials, including the president, from accepting presents from foreign states without congressional approval—raising questions about the legality of the arrangement.

The Democratic National Committee issued a sharp rebuke, stating that the gesture reflects a pattern of self-enrichment by the president and his associates. “While working families brace for higher costs and empty shelves, Trump is still focusing on enriching himself and his billionaire backers,” the committee wrote in an email to supporters.

Senator Chris Murphy labelled the proposal ‘wildly illegal,’ while Representative Kelly Morrison described it as “corruption in plain sight” and accused the administration of accepting an unethical and unconstitutional bribe.

With mounting pressure on the White House to clarify the legal basis and political reasoning behind the gift, the episode has added yet another layer of controversy to President Trump’s already contentious foreign relations and business dealings during his term in office.

Further statements from the administration or relevant legal bodies have yet to be issued.