In a controversial move that is raising eyebrows, President Donald Trump is allegedly set to accept a lavished gift from the Qatari royal family.
The gift? Oh, just a $400 million dollar Boeing 747-8 airplane that will temporarily be used as Air Force One and later transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation after this term ends, so that he can continue to use it, so say reports.
Dubbed by some as “palace in the sky,” the aircraft may go down as the largest gift given to the U.S. from a foreign government ever—that is, if it’s officially accepted.
There are, of course, ethical concerns with a gift of this nature. Qatar has disputed the initial report, acknowledging that discussions have taken place but denying that the jet is being gifted or that the decision is official.
Trump, however, seemed to confirm the report in a Truth Social post: So the fact that the Defense 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
The news has not so shockingly sparked backlash from both sides of the political aisle. Will there be enough pushback to cause a change of plans? What will happen next is anyone’s guess.
In any case, the unprecedented gesture prompts a look at back at other historic gifts bestowed upon the United States by foreign nations (and no, we won’t . Let’s take a look.
India Gives Jill Biden $20,000 Diamond (2023)
During a 2023 state visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented First Lady Jill Biden with a 7.5-carat lab-grown green diamond, symbolizing sustainable innovation and the growing U.S.-India partnership. It was the priciest gift from a foreign leader in 2023, reported the AP.
Komodo Dragons from Indonesia (1990)
In 1990, Indonesia gifted President George H.W. Bush a pair of Komodo dragons. Due to their endangered status and specific care requirements, the dragons were housed at the Cincinnati Zoo, promoting conservation awareness.
Cherry Blossom Trees from Japan (1912)
In 1912, Japan presented 3,020 cherry blossom trees to the U.S. as a gesture of goodwill. Planted around Washington, D.C.’s Tidal Basin, they have become a cherished symbol of spring and international friendship.
Giant Pandas from China (1972)
Following President Nixon’s historic visit to China, Premier Zhou Enlai gifted two giant pandas, Ling-Ling and Hsing-Hsing, to the U.S., marking a significant thaw in relations and captivating the American public.
Armenian Orphan Rug (1925)
Woven by orphans of the Armenian genocide, this intricate rug was presented to President Calvin Coolidge in 1925 as a token of gratitude for American humanitarian assistance. It remains a symbol of resilience and international solidarity.
Moon Rock Samples from the Soviet Union (1970s)
During the détente era, the Soviet Union shared lunar soil samples with the U.S., reflecting a spirit of scientific collaboration amid the space race.
The Statue of Liberty from France (1886)
A symbol of freedom and democracy, France gifted the Statue of Liberty to the U.S. in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of American independence and the enduring friendship between the two nations.
