Donald Trump has defended a reported plan to accept a luxury jet from the Qatari royal family for temporary use as Air Force One. Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump described the jet as a “GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE,” and accused Democrats of being upset over what he called a clear and money-saving deal.

“So the fact that the Defence Department is getting a GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE, of a 747 aircraft to replace the 40-year-old Air Force One, temporarily, in a very public and transparent transaction, so bothers the Crooked Democrats that they insist we pay, TOP DOLLAR, for the plane. Anybody can do that! The Dems are World Class Losers!!! MAGA,” Trump wrote.

Reports reveal Pentagon talks with Qatar

Reports from ABC News and The New York Times said over the weekend that Qatar is in talks with the Pentagon to transfer a Boeing 747-8. This plane would be used temporarily as Air Force One.

It is reported that the plan includes handing over the jet to Trump’s presidential library at the end of his term in January 2029. This would allow him continued access to the plane after leaving office.

Legal and ethical concerns raised

Qatari officials have denied that the aircraft is a personal gift to Trump. They describe the move as a “government-to-government” transfer.

However, the plan has triggered a wave of legal and ethical concerns. Critics argue that it could breach the US Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, which forbids government officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without Congress’s approval.

Ethics expert Kathleen Clark called the plan “outrageous,” saying Trump was using federal power for personal benefit. Senator Chris Murphy labelled it “wildly illegal,” while Representative Kelly Morrison called it “corruption in plain sight.”

Even Trump ally Laura Loomer expressed concern, warning that accepting a gift from Qatar — a country with links to groups like Hamas and Hezbollah — could harm the administration’s reputation.

White House prepares legal defence

The White House has reportedly prepared a legal defence. Officials argue that the jet would be accepted by the Pentagon first, then transferred to a foundation — not to Trump personally. Therefore, they claim, it would not violate the Emoluments Clause.

They also insist there is no exchange of favours and no bribery involved.

Trump to announce deal during Middle East trip

Trump is expected to officially announce the arrangement during his trip to the Middle East this week. His visit will include stops in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The jet, reportedly valued at around $400 million, is similar to one Trump toured in February at Palm Beach International Airport. Although more than ten years old, the plane will be upgraded with secure communications and other important features before entering service.

(Agency inputs)