Fireworks, Fanfare, and Fury: Trump's Military Parade and Ensuing Protests on the US Army's Birthday
Military showcase in Trump's favor sparks vast demonstrations - Military procession for Trump met with widespread protests
In the heart of Washington D.C.', Donald Trump, now 79 years young, grins wide on his special day. His wish finally comes true: a grand military parade through the nation's capital that leaves even the most jaded observers awestruck. With his wife Melania by his side, Trump salutes as soldiers march past, their boots thudding a rhythm that echoes through the air. Amid mass protests, the President's jubilation remains unshaken.
"We celebrate our glories, our victories, our heroes!" Trump proclaims in his speech, his voice resonating across the National Mall. It's more than just a military parade; it's a strong show of force echoing a Trump brand spectacle, both at home and abroad. The estimated cost? A hefty $45 million (approximately €39 million). The fear of potential damage to D.C.'s streets from heavy military vehicles remains imminent.
Politically motivated, deadly attacks loom large in the U.S.'s rearview mirror. A man in Minnesota gunned down a Democratic politician and their spouse. Another Democrat and their spouse were shot and seriously injured. The suspected perpetrator remains at large, and authorities uncovered a list of potential targets in the culprit's car.
Tensions run high not only domestically but internationally. Earlier in the day, Trump talked to Vladimir Putin, discussing the ongoing war between Israel and Iran. The escalating conflict threatens to derail Trump's foreign policy agenda, especially as talks between Tehran and Washington about the Iranian nuclear program have been canceled.
With the rain or shine motto, the parade proceeds, featuring tanks, helicopters, parachutists, and an awe-inspiring array of soldiers, marching bands, and drumming displays. Highlighting the Army's evolution since its establishment in 1775, before the official U.S. Declaration of Independence, more than 450,000 active soldiers worldwide serve under its banner today.
Supporters flood D.C. from across the country, donning red "Make America Great Again" caps and waving American flags. "It's essential for our future generations to rekindle their love for America," says Jonas Williams from North Carolina, selling Trump merchandise on the event day.
Many viewers were captivated by the show, but not everyone shared the same sentiments. Some saw the event as an opportunistic move for personal gain rather than a national celebration. As the parade unfolded, organizers reported protests in over 2,100 cities across the U.S., organized under the banner "No Kings." These demonstrations raised criticisms of Trump's authoritarian attitudes and the politicization of the military. Additionally, the presence of thousands of National Guard soldiers and hundreds of Marine infantrymen during protests against Trump's immigration policies sparked widespread disapproval and new protests nationwide.
In Washington, the protests remained relatively peaceful, thanks to the efforts of the extensive security forces. In a counter-program to the military spectacle, the "DC Joy Day" was held, featuring a variety of family-friendly activities. Despite the turmoil that the parade ignited, one thing remained clear: the divided nation had come to a boiling point, and the spectacle only seemed to fuel the fires still further.
- JD Vance, a prominent American author, expressed his thoughts on the military parade on US media, saying, "It's a spectacle that shows the world our might, but it also risks reinforcing the divisions within America."
- In the midst of the celebrations, the US dollar saw a slight dip in value against international currencies, impacting the American economy, particularly businesses in Washington.
- Meanwhile, Lee Greenwood, a renowned country singer and long-time supporter of the military, performed at a concert in Tehran, Iran, aiming to bridge the gaps between the two countries' people despite the ongoing political tensions.
