Washington DC, 23 June (H.S.): US President Donald Trump on Monday warned that anyone found damaging the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington could face up to 10 years in prison, as controversy continued over the renovation of one of the capital's most recognisable landmarks.
In a post on his Truth Social platform on Monday, Trump said the Reflecting Pool was the only monument among several restoration projects undertaken by his administration that had been vandalised. He added that repair work was already underway and stressed that strict legal action would be taken against those responsible.
Please remember that there is a 10-year prison sentence for the destruction, or even the attempted destruction, of such things, Trump said, adding that the law would be fully enforced.
The warning followed reports of damage to the recently renovated pool, which underwent an extensive restoration after Trump ordered contractors to drain it and repaint its interior in what he described as American flag blue. However, the project soon encountered problems, including peeling paint, algae growth and green-coloured water, drawing criticism from opponents and conservation experts.
Trump attributed the damage to vandals, although he did not present evidence to support the claim.
The US National Park Service confirmed that law enforcement officers had taken action in connection with vandalism at the site. According to officials, five individuals have been arrested, while five others received federal citations for damaging property within the protected national park area.
The Reflecting Pool, located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, is one of the most visited historic sites in the United States and has served as the backdrop for several major national events and civil rights gatherings.
The renovation forms part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape and beautify prominent public spaces in Washington. Among the projects is a proposed large ballroom at the White House, which has generated debate over its cost, contract awards and priorities.
Critics have argued that the administration's renovation programme is expensive and lacks transparency, while supporters say it is intended to preserve and enhance the nation's historic landmarks.
Monday's remarks underscore the administration's hardline stance on vandalism of federal property as restoration work continues at several monuments across the US capital.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
