On Saturday, the United States marked the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence with fireworks, air shows, and a speech from President Donald Trump. The White House described the occasion as "the most important milestone" in the nation's history, aiming to "inspire a renewed love for American history." Across the Atlantic, European leaders and royals sent messages of congratulations, reflecting on the depth and evolution of transatlantic ties.
Messages from European Capitals
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, wrote on X: "Today, we join our American friends in celebrating 250 years of independence." She added that the partnership has been "shaped by our shared values and family bonds" and "strengthened by the immense bravery and lives lost in the defence of freedom."
In a separate statement, King Charles III recalled his April visit to the US, arranged to mark the anniversary. "The story of the relationship between our two nations is one of extraordinary evolution, from overcoming conflict to forging one of the closest and most productive alliances the world has seen," he said. The British monarch highlighted cooperation in defence, trade, science, and culture.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki called the anniversary a "milestone for a nation that has left an indelible mark on the history of the struggle for freedom and democracy." He noted the 18th-century bonds forged by Polish heroes Kazimierz Pułaski and Tadeusz Kościuszko, and stressed that "today, our alliance is one of the pillars of security for Europe and the entire North Atlantic Alliance." This sentiment echoes recent discussions among NATO leaders, as NATO leaders prepare to reaffirm Article 5 at the Ankara Summit.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz posted on X: "250 years since the USA was founded on freedom, democracy, and responsibility. Germany and the USA have been connected by a close friendship since time immemorial. Especially in challenging times, our transatlantic partnership remains indispensable." Merz has also been active in pledging stronger NATO deterrence alongside Baltic leaders.
In Paris, the Eiffel Tower was illuminated in the colours of the US flag. The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs called it a "powerful reminder that the friendship between our two nations dates back to the 18th century."
Italian President Sergio Mattarella sent a message to President Trump, offering "warmest congratulations to the people of the United States, our friends." He emphasised the need for Washington and Rome to continue working together "to promote peace, security and prosperity for their respective peoples and for the whole world."
Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir expressed "heartfelt congratulations" in a video clip, recalling that the US was the first country to recognise Iceland's republic in 1944. "We have shared numerous monumental moments during our friendship over the years," she said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy framed the American Dream as "one of humanity's brightest, strongest, and most influential dreams." He added: "Now, in the 21st century, America's influence and importance are certainly no less. And we see that particularly clearly in Ukraine, which is fighting for its independence."
The anniversary also saw symbolic gestures across the continent. In Bucharest, the US flag was projected onto the facade of the Romanian Athenaeum, a 19th-century concert hall. The displays underscored the enduring cultural and political bonds between Europe and the United States, even as the continent navigates its own strategic challenges.
