Trump's show of strength at 79: Military parade plan

Former US President Donald Trump plans to crown his upcoming 79th birthday with a grand military parade rather than an ordinary celebration. According to sources speaking to the US press, Trump wants to organize a large-scale military ceremony in Washington by combining his June 14 birthday with the 250th anniversary of the US Army, which falls on the same date.

PLANNING BEGAN LAST YEAR

It was reported that preparations for the ceremony began last year. The event, which was initially planned only to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American military, was expanded and turned into a birthday celebration due to its coincidence with Trump's birthday.

The event is planned to be held in Washington DC between the Pentagon and the White House. The organization of such a large-scale ceremony in the US capital has drawn attention in both security and political terms.

HE WANTED IT DURING HIS FIRST TERM TOO

During his presidency, Trump was impressed by the military parade he watched during France's Bastille Day celebrations and had given instructions for a similar organization to be held in the US. However, the plan was canceled at the time due to estimates that the cost of the ceremony would reach approximately 90 million dollars.

Furthermore, reactions from the capital's administration had also been influential in the decision. Local officials had expressed the opinion that moving heavy military vehicles and tanks through Washington city center could damage infrastructure and negatively affect civilian life.

IN THE PRESIDENTIAL RACE AGAIN

Trump's military parade plan is also interpreted as a political message as he is once again a presidential candidate for the Republican Party for the 2024 elections. While Trump continues to present himself to voters with a strong leader image, the flashy celebration on June 14 is also evaluated as part of this strategy.