A grand parade commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. military, coinciding with President Donald Trump's 79th birthday, is set to kick off today in the Washington, D.C. area as demonstrations against his policies sweep across the nation.

The federally funded event is anticipated to feature approximately 6,600 soldiers, 50 helicopters, 60-ton M1 Abrams battle tanks, and a potential 200,000 attendees, as reported by The Associated Press.

Despite unfavorable weather forecasts, President Trump confirmed on Truth Social that the parade would proceed as planned, emphasizing that the event would take place 'RAIN OR SHINE.'

Thunderstorm risks are expected to escalate throughout the day, with concerns about lightning prompting organizers to consider evacuating the area for safety precautions, according to a White House spokesperson.

Simultaneously, protests against the parade and Trump's anti-immigration stance are scheduled across the U.S., following a series of demonstrations spurred by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles.

The 50501 Movement has orchestrated nationwide responses, advocating for democracy and denouncing what they perceive as authoritarian actions by the Trump administration, with the group canceling an anti-Trump protest in Northeast Minneapolis due to safety concerns following recent political violence in the area.

U.S. authorities are on alert for any immigration-related incidents at the rallies, after President Trump deployed National Guard troops and U.S. Marines to California without Gov. Gavin Newsom's approval earlier this week.

Trump's proposal for a military parade was initially inspired by his attendance at France's Bastille Day parade in 2017, with military leaders defending the estimated $25 million to $45 million cost, citing potential recruitment benefits.

However, critics like Army veteran Aaron Bogner view the parade as a political stunt, expressing concerns over the deployment of troops and weaponry in the streets, likening it to displays in North Korea.

Bogner, who plans to participate in the protests, criticizes the deployment of National Guard troops and questions the president's actions, particularly in light of pardons issued to individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack.

A recent poll indicates that a majority of Americans believe the parade is not a wise use of government funds, reflecting ongoing public sentiment surrounding the event.

This story is developing.

Source: Global News