In the United States, a very controversial national holiday

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Donald Trump invited the armed forces to join the ceremonies of 4-July. SAUL LOEB / AFP

The festivities of the American National Day will take this Thursday, July 4th a particular turn, with a military parade and a speech of Donald Trump. Innovations that already arouse controversy.

With our correspondent in Washington, Anne Corpet

As every year, thousands of Americans have come together in Washington to celebrate Independence Day. As every year, police, sailors, schools and brass bands marched on Constitution Avenue. But this year, what is usually a day of unity turns into political confrontation.

The supporters of Donald Trump are particularly mobilized on the Mall, this huge lawn in the center of the federal capital. They came to support the initiative of the president who this year invited the armed forces to join the ceremonies. Tanks are on display, an air show will take place tonight and troops have been gathered to attend the presidential address.

" It seems like a lot of people are already heading to SALUTE TO AMERICA at the Lincoln Memorial. It will be worth the trip and wait. See you at 18h. Amazing music and groups. Thank you Army! ", Tweeted President Donald Trump.

Looks like a lot of people already heading to SALUTE TO AMERICA at Lincoln Memorial. It will be worth the trip and wait. See you there at 6:00 PM Amazing music and bands. Thank you ARMY!

Democrats denounce the exploitation of the army for political ends. According to the American press, the Pentagon was also reluctant to join the festivities. Military parades are not a tradition in the United States, they are perceived as the prerogative of totalitarian regimes. Critics criticize an initiative intended above all to value Donald Trump himself and wonder about the cost of these festivities.

The White House has distributed invitations to Republican Party donors to fill the ranks. A sparse audience would be an offense to the president. But the unfolding of the ceremony could be disturbed by a capricious weather with the announcement of a possible storm at the end of the day.

►Also read- United States: Donald Trump revolutionizes the national holiday of July 4th

We really wonder if it's a salute to America or a salute to Donald Trump. And it is on this ambiguity, really, that there is controversy.

Corentin Sellin

Historian and specialist in the United States