Over 7,000 military personnel and more than a hundred tanks marched in a grand parade in Washington D.C., witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The event, originally scheduled to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, also coincided with Trump's 79th birthday—a long-held wish of the president. Despite rain, the parade commenced half an hour early, featuring reenactments of historic wars and conflicts.
Trump, in a brief speech, praised the military, stating, "Every other country celebrates its victories. It's time America does the same." However, the parade's timing was controversial, especially after Trump's recent mobilization of the National Guard against California's will, drawing criticism for allegedly using the military as a political tool.
Meanwhile, protests under the banner "No Kings" erupted in hundreds of cities across the U.S., with millions reportedly participating. Demonstrations in Los Angeles, New York, and other cities highlighted concerns over democracy and immigrant rights. While most protests were peaceful, some turned violent, with police using tear gas and smoke bombs to disperse crowds.
