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Washington DC is on high alert following statements from President Donald Trump, who warned that any protests against the National Flag Day military parade will be met with "an excessive use of force."
"If any protester tries to leave, they will face excessive use of force," the president stated from the Oval Office.
"I haven't even heard of a protest, but as you know, it involves people who hate our country, and they will face serious consequences," he added.
The White House did not issue additional comments following the president's warning.
The statement comes despite the authorities indicating that, so far, there are no protests scheduled that are directly related to the parade.
Nevertheless, officials assured that they are fully prepared. Matt McCool, the Secret Service agent in charge in Washington DC, indicated that "thousands of agents, officers, and specialists from across the country" will be deployed and that the security operation has been planned in advance.
The parade, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States Army, will take place on Saturday, June 14, along Constitution Avenue, between 15th and 23rd Streets.
It coincides with President Trump's 79th birthday, and massive participation is expected.
The FAA has announced disruptions in flights at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), as well as temporary road and waterway closures, as part of the national security plan. The event has been classified as a National Special Security Event (NSSE).
The event will feature an impressive military display, including more than 100 vehicles such as M1A2 Abrams tanks and Apache helicopters, as well as troops dressed in historical uniforms representing each armed conflict since the War of Independence. There will also be parachutists, fireworks, and a free concert open to the public.
Trump has defended the cost of the event—estimated between 25 and 45 million dollars—as an investment in national pride.
"We will have a fantastic parade on June 14th, Flag Day. It will be an incredible day. We have tanks, planes, everything. And I think it will be great. We are going to celebrate our country, for a change," he indicated.
The activist group No Kings, critical of the current administration, has forecasted more than 1,800 protests across the country in response to what they consider "authoritarian overreach."
Although no protests have been confirmed directly in Washington DC yet, the Park Police indicated that there are several pending permits related to the First Amendment and that they are closely monitoring the situation.
Security will be strict. The entry of large backpacks, drones, balloons, weapons, and other objects will be prohibited. Individuals will need to go through security checks with metal detectors.
Although Trump asserts that the parade will celebrate "the legacy of the Army and the spirit of the nation," his warnings about the use of force reinforce the tensions between the Administration and sectors that denounce the growing authoritarianism in the rhetoric and actions of the Executive.
Frequently Asked Questions about the National Flag Day Parade and Trump's Warning
What did Donald Trump warn about the protests at the National Flag Day parade?
Donald Trump warned that any demonstration against the parade will be met with "an excessive use of force." The president described potential protesters as people who "hate our country" and promised serious consequences for those who attempt to protest. This warning comes despite there being no protests scheduled directly related to the event.
What security measures will be implemented during the parade in Washington DC?
Thousands of agents, officers, and specialists from across the country will be deployed, and the entry of large backpacks, drones, balloons, and weapons will be prohibited. Attendees will have to go through security checks with metal detectors. Security will be strict due to the event's designation as a National Special Security Event (NSSE).
What activities will be included in the National Flag Day parade?
The parade will feature an impressive military display, including over 100 vehicles such as M1A2 Abrams tanks and Apache helicopters, troops in historical uniforms, parachutists, fireworks, and a free concert. Massive participation is expected, and the event will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States Army.
Why is the National Flag Day parade significant this year?
The parade commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States Army and coincides with the 79th birthday of President Donald Trump. This event has been advocated by Trump as an investment in national pride, despite its estimated cost of between 25 and 45 million dollars.
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