The 250th Independence anniversary of the United States was celebrated with congratulatory messages from many leaders around the world. Events such as the International Naval Parade in New York Harbor and the illumination of the Eiffel Tower in the colors of the US flag added color to the celebrations.
Praise-filled Messages from Europe
King Charles III of the United Kingdom said in a written statement, "This year is truly a historic milestone and a great moment of celebration for Americans. It offers an opportunity to pause and reflect on the extraordinary journey the US has undertaken over the past two and a half centuries and to honor what has been achieved since 1776."
Pope Leo XIV, the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, also conveyed his "warmest congratulations" to the American people. In his message, the Pope said, "As we celebrate this anniversary, it is important to recognize that religious freedom has long been at the heart of the American promise, safeguarding both individual dignity and the peaceful coexistence of a diverse people."
France illuminated the Eiffel Tower in Paris in red, white and blue, sending a message of "a sincere tribute to the US's 250th anniversary" and "a powerful reminder that the friendship between the two countries dates back to the 18th century." President Emmanuel Macron shared a photo on his X account showing the French acrobatic team flying over the Statue of Liberty.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that the US was "founded on the foundations of freedom, democracy and responsibility," and said, "Germany and the US have always had a close friendship. Especially in difficult times, our transatlantic partnership is indispensable."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote that July 4 marks "one of humanity's brightest, strongest and most influential dreams – the American Dream of an independent, free and prosperous nation that defends people's freedom, faith and pursuit of happiness."
Putin's Personal Message from Russia
The Russian Foreign Ministry shared the message that President Vladimir Putin sent to his US counterpart Donald Trump: "Donald, I wish you and your loved ones health, well-being and success, and all US citizens happiness and prosperity."
Strong Support from the Middle East
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Trump to congratulate him and said in a video message, "America has been the greatest force for freedom the modern world has known. Israel is proud to stand by its side, because our alliance is based not only on shared interests but on shared values." A statement from Netanyahu's office said the prime minister said during the call that the US is the guarantor of global freedom and that Israel greatly values the close ties between the two countries.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited US Ambassador to Jerusalem Mike Huckabee at the embassy. Herzog said, "American Independence is one of the greatest moments in history and has changed the destiny of humanity," and in a letter to Trump emphasized the "unique and unbreakable partnership" between the two countries.
United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the US's founding journey reflected the values of "determination and perseverance" and that these values form the basis of the enduring partnership between the two countries. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also sent a congratulatory cable to Trump, wishing the president "health and happiness" and the American people "steady progress and prosperity."
Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the Pakistani government also sent congratulatory messages to the US. Pakistan, recalling its mediation in talks between Washington and Tehran, said, "We extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to the US and its people."
Celebrations from Asia and Other Regions
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi noted that her country gifted 250 cherry trees to the US, and said, "Japan and the US will continue to work together to further strengthen the bonds between the two countries."
Taiwanese Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim threw the first pitch at a baseball event organized by the American Institute, sharing the message, "Our countries share a belief in freedom and democracy. Congratulations and happy 4th of July."
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X, "On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my warmest congratulations to President Trump and the people of the US on the 250th anniversary of your independence. India and the US share more than a strategic partnership. Our shared belief in democracy, the rule of law and the limitless potential of our peoples makes our friendship a force for global good."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that the Declaration of Independence "gave birth to a new nation founded on the ideals of freedom and the pursuit of happiness," and said, "For 250 years, our transatlantic partnership has been shaped by our shared values and family ties. It has been strengthened at times by the tremendous courage shown and lives lost in the defense of freedom."
Argentine President Javier Milei also attended the Independence Day celebration at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires, where the national anthems of both countries were played.
