Trump's Military Spectacle: A 250th Anniversary Bash Turned Controversy
Military celebration in honor of Trump meets widespread demonstrations
Washington, D.C. - President Donald Trump grins on his 79th birthday, finally experiencing what he's long desired: a military parade through the nation's capital. Despite massive nationwide protests, he shows no signs of it.
"Every other country celebrates its victories," Trump says in his speech, stubbornly sticking to his prepared script. "It's time for America to do the same." His Vice President JD Vance wishes him a happy birthday. Country musician Lee Greenwood sings "God Bless the USA" - a song often played at Trump's campaign events. Finally, the grand finale: fireworks.
Officially, it's a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, the most significant and oldest branch of the military. But to many in the country, it feels more like a personal gift to the president - and a political power display, both at home and abroad. U.S. media estimates the cost at up to $45 million (around €39 million). Street damage from heavy military vehicles remains a concern.
The Shadows of Alleged Political Attacks and Middle East Tensions
Trump's dream of military pomp goes up against reality. The program has to be adjusted due to unsettled weather. Meanwhile, concerns about escalation loom over Washington like a thick cloud - not just because of the nationwide protests, but also due to a specific, chilling threat.
In the early morning hours, a man in Minnesota shot and killed a Democratic politician and their spouse. Another Democrat and their spouse were also shot and severely injured. Authorities suspect the act was politically motivated, and the attacker is still at large. Investigators found a list of many other officials' names in his car.
The situation on this Saturday couldn't be more tense, not just domestically. Earlier that morning, Trump had spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin again. Both sides said it was a birthday call, but it was mainly about the war between Israel and Iran.
The escalating conflict in the Middle East is likely disrupting Trump’s foreign policy agenda: Just recently, the president had emphasized that he opposes an Israeli attack on Iran as long as he believes in a deal with Tehran. The talks between Tehran and Washington over Iran’s nuclear program, scheduled for Sunday in Oman? Cancelled.
Parade Amidst Tanks, Helicopters, and Parachutists
The military parade in Washington goes ahead, as Trump had stated, "Rain or Shine." The day before, there were heavy thunderstorms here, the humidity remains. Clothes stick to the skin - especially the thousands of soldiers marching along the National Mall towards the White House in partly historical uniforms. Trump sits on the stage with Melania and members of his government, applauding as soldiers play wind instruments or drum. At military vehicles, including heavy tanks, and paratroopers, drones, and helicopters.
As the procession moves along, the history of the US Army is recalled. It was founded on June 14, 1775 - even before the official declaration of independence from Britain. Today, around 450,000 active soldiers serve the Army worldwide.
A Split Nation
Originally, hundreds of thousands were expected to attend the celebrations. Whether this number was reached is uncertain. What can be said, however, is that the parade has drawn supporters from across the country. Many of the attendees hold US flags, some wearing red "Make America Great Again" caps.
For many other Americans, however, the day looks different - they are also on the streets, but to protest. Under the motto "No Kings," demonstrations are taking place across the country. Participants accuse Trump of authoritarianism. On time for the start of the military parade, the organizers report a total of over five million participants in about 2,100 cities - far more than in previous demonstrations.
Tensions have been building up in the country for days, with the military taking on a significant role: The deployment of thousands of National Guard soldiers and hundreds of Marine infantrymen during protests against Trump’s immigration policy in Los Angeles sparked much criticism. On the day of the parade, Washington remains largely calm, with thousands of security forces protecting the event. The organizers of the "No Kings" movement had explicitly called for no protests in the capital. Instead, there was the "DC Joy Day" - a deliberately cheerful counter-program to the military spectacle.
- As the parade unfolds, social-media platforms are abuzz with a mix of positive comments from supporters and critical opinions from protesters, expressing varying views on the military spectacle and President Trump's political agenda.
- Amidst the fanfare of the parade, the usual flow of general-news programming on various media outlets is momentarily disrupted by discussions on the recent escalation of war-and-conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the war between Israel and Iran, and its potential impact on Trump's foreign policy.
- As the parade reaches its climax, the stark division in the nation becomes evident. While some engage in entertainment, such as the performance by Lee Greenwood, others take to the streets for crime-and-justice-related protests, questioning the president's authority and expressing concerns about certain political actions.
