South African President Cyril Ramaphosa added humor to a recent Oval Office meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump by joking, “I’m sorry we don’t have a plane to give you.” Trump responded with a smile, “I wish you did. I’d take it,” prompting laughter from those in the room.
Qatar Donates Boeing 747 as Temporary Presidential Jet
The light moment followed news that the United States Air Force had accepted a Boeing 747 from the Qatari government. The aircraft is intended to serve as a temporary version of Air Force One while Boeing continues work on the delayed replacement fleet.
The donation was announced during Trump’s recent visit to the Middle East. Trump emphasized the plane is not for his personal use and rejected suggestions of a personal gift. “It’s not for me. I’m not receiving it. It’s for the United States Air Force,” he said, calling media questions about the jet “fake news.”
Tensions Over South African Violence
While Ramaphosa aimed to discuss stronger trade relations between the U.S. and South Africa, the conversation took a serious turn when Trump raised concerns about violence in South Africa. He showed video footage and criticized the South African government for not stopping attacks on white farmers.
“These killings have caused thousands to flee,” Trump said, expressing concerns about the refugee situation in the region.
U.S. Air Force to Upgrade Donated Aircraft
Despite criticism from Senate Democrats, the U.S. Air Force plans to award a contract to upgrade the donated Boeing jet. The details of the deal have not been made public.
Air Force One Replacements Delayed
The current Air Force One fleet, made up of aging Boeing 747 aircraft, has been due for replacement for years. However, delays in the program have forced the military to seek temporary alternatives. The Qatari-donated plane is expected to fill the gap.
Trump Defends Qatar’s $400 Million Jet Gift
On May 12, Trump faced a question from ABC News reporter Rachel Scott about whether the $400 million jet from Qatar’s royal family could be seen as a personal gift. He sharply dismissed the suggestion.
“You’re ABC Fake News, right?” Trump said. “You should be embarrassed asking that question. They’re giving us a free jet.” He continued, “It’s not a gift to me. It’s a gift to the Department of Defense.”
Trump Compares Jet to a “Gimme” in Golf
Trump compared accepting the plane to accepting a “gimme” putt in golf. “A lot of people are stupid,” he said. “When they give you a putt, you pick it up and say, ‘Thank you very much.’”
Trump Responds on Social Media
On May 14, Trump posted on Truth Social, describing the plane as a “GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE.” He criticized Democrats for opposing the deal and wrote, “Only a FOOL would not accept this gift on behalf of our Country.”
Qatar Denies Gift Was Meant to Influence
Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, denied that the donation was meant to gain influence in the U.S. Speaking to CNN on May 14, he said, “It has nothing to do with personnel… It’s Ministry of Defense and Department of Defense.”
He added, “Why would we buy influence in the United States?” and pointed to Qatar’s role in supporting U.S. military efforts in the fight against terrorism and the evacuation from Afghanistan.
