Bastille Day Marked Worldwide; Macron Announces Defense Hike

Bastille Day was marked globally with parades, fireworks, and cultural events, including French-themed festivities in cities like Dallas and Philadelphia. In Paris, President Emmanuel Macron presided over a parade featuring 7,000 troops, tanks, and a fighter jet flyover, with Indonesia as the special guest nation. A drone light show illuminated the Eiffel Tower, and fireworks took place throughout France. In Pondicherry, India, torchlight processions underscored Franco-Indian friendship. First Lady Brigitte Macron attended the celebrations while managing a high-profile legal case. President Macron also announced a major increase in defense spending, citing ongoing security threats to Europe and emphasizing national unity.