U.S. President Donald Trump indicated on Saturday that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington could require partial drainage to allow for necessary repair work. The statement followed allegations of vandalism at the recently renovated site, according to Reuters.
In a message posted to Truth Social, Trump noted that contractors had conducted an inspection of the facility and determined that a significant portion of the water might need to be released. "We met with contractors today, will probably be forced to release and drain much of the water in order to do the necessary repairs," Trump wrote.
The President also stated that authorities had apprehended several individuals in connection with the alleged damage. He alleged that the vandalism included the pouring of corrosive chemicals into the reflecting pool, though he did not provide specific evidence to substantiate the claim at this time.
The U.S. Park Police, the Department of the Interior, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia did not immediately provide comments regarding the allegations.
The reflecting pool underwent a $14.7 million renovation project that was completed earlier this month. Following the conclusion of the project, workers began treating the water with hydrogen peroxide to address an algae bloom that had turned the pool green.
Reports from earlier this week indicated that paint applied to the bottom of the pool had begun peeling into the water.
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is one of Washington’s most recognizable landmarks, stretching between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
The renovation is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape parts of the U.S. capital. Among the proposals are plans for a new ballroom at the White House and the construction of a large arch near Arlington National Cemetery.