The upcoming military parade in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday is set to be a grand event, with President Donald Trump warning protesters to stay away or face “very heavy force.” The parade is scheduled for June 14 and will feature military demonstrations, static equipment displays, and an evening concert and fireworks show.
In a press conference at the Oval Office, Trump emphasized the importance of the parade and condemned any potential protests as disrespectful to the country. He stated that anyone attempting to disrupt the event would be met with a strong response, indicating a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of dissent.
This warning comes amidst ongoing tensions in California, where federal troops have been deployed in response to clashes over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Trump’s decision to mobilize National Guard and Marines in Los Angeles has sparked controversy, with Governor Gavin Newsom filing a lawsuit against the deployment, citing concerns over state sovereignty and resource allocation.
Despite opposition from local leaders, Trump remains steadfast in his decision to deploy federal forces to maintain order and protect federal property. He has authorized additional troops to be sent to Los Angeles and has even mentioned the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act if necessary to quell the unrest.
The protests have not been limited to Los Angeles, with demonstrations spreading to other cities like San Francisco, Santa Ana, Dallas, and Austin, Texas. In Austin, police resorted to using tear gas and pepper spray balls to disperse a crowd after officers were injured by thrown objects during the unrest.
The situation remains tense as federal forces continue to monitor the situation and ensure public safety during the upcoming military parade. Trump’s firm stance on maintaining law and order underscores the administration’s commitment to upholding security and order in the face of civil unrest.
As the country prepares to celebrate the U.S. Army’s milestone anniversary, the president’s warning to potential protesters serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting national events and honoring the sacrifices of the men and women in uniform.