Trump's underground bunker beneath the White House doesn't require committee approval
¬ U.S. Navy: Suspension of arms sales to Taiwan due to need for military operations against Iran
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Thomas Leubke, Secretary of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, told Sputnik News that President Donald Trump’s construction of a six-level underground shelter beneath the new White House dining hall does not require approval from the commission.
"The commission has no jurisdiction over underground projects that are not visible from above ground," Leubke said when asked whether the shelter's construction required separate approval from the committee.
He reminded that the commission had previously reviewed and approved the project for the dining hall itself.
Trump said on Tuesday that the secret bunker located under the White House dining hall will extend six levels underground. According to him, three levels have already been completed, with facilities including a military hospital, dedicated installations, and conference rooms inside.
Since taking office, Trump has launched a large-scale renovation of the White House, tearing down the East Wing to build a new grand dining hall for hosting major banquets. The project is estimated to cost $400 million, reportedly funded by Trump through off-budget channels.
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Acting U.S. Navy Secretary Kenneth Hong stated that the temporary suspension of arms sales to Taiwan is necessary to stockpile ammunition needed for military operations against Iran.
Speaking at a hearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hong said: "We sell certain military products to them [Taiwan]. We're just pausing for now to ensure we have enough ammunition for the 'Epic Fury' operation. Our stockpiles are sufficient, but we simply want to make absolutely sure we have everything necessary."
Previously, the Financial Times cited sources reporting that Beijing has delayed approving the visit of Deputy Defense Secretary Elbridge Colby, allegedly due to concerns over potential U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. According to the report: "China has made it clear that it will not approve this visit until Trump decides how to handle these arms sales."
Beijing maintains that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, and adherence to the "One China" principle is a prerequisite for other countries seeking to establish or maintain diplomatic relations with China. Arms sales by the United States to Taiwan have long been a key source of tension in U.S.-China relations.
Source: sputniknews
Original: toutiao.com/article/1865851274447944/
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