World leaders toast America on its 250th birthday

A host of leaders from around the globe took to social media on Saturday to extend congratulations to America on its 250th anniversary milestone.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her message celebrated the relationship between the U.S. and European nations.

“Today, we join our American friends in celebrating 250 years of independence,” she wrote in a Saturday morning post.

“The Declaration of Independence gave birth to a new nation founded on the ideals of liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” von der Leyen posted to social platform X.

“For 250 years, our transatlantic partnership has been shaped by our shared values and family bonds,” she added. “And, at times, it has been strengthened by the immense bravery and lives lost in the defence of freedom.”

Pope Leo XIV, who was born and raised in Chicago, shared a message of “heartfelt congratulations” to the country on the U.S.’s birthday.

“This anniversary stands as an invitation not only to celebrate the nation’s remarkable journey, but also to reflect upon the responsibilities that the sons and daughters of this country bear to one another, and to the generations who will inherit the nation that is being shaped today,” the American pontiff wrote in a social media post.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki sent “greetings” from his country and acknowledged the two nations’ commitment to “the common fight for a free and safe world.”

“Today, our alliance is one of the pillars of Europe’s security and the entire North Atlantic Alliance,” Nawrocki said in a statement. “I am convinced that thanks to close cooperation between the Presidents of Poland and the United States, it will continue to be strengthened to the benefit of both our nations.

“I thank President Donald Trump @POTUS for his goodwill toward Poland and for our joint efforts to strengthen our strategic partnership,” he continued. “Together, we are making it even stronger.”

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the president of the United Arab Emirates, similarly shared his “sincere congratulations” to Trump in an anniversary message.

“The journey of the United States’ founding is one of determination and resolve, values that continue to underpin the enduring partnership and mutual trust our countries share today,” he wrote. “As we reflect on the future we seek to build together, the UAE remains committed to further fostering its close ties with the US to achieve lasting progress and prosperity for our nations, peoples, and the wider world.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has had a strained relationship with the Trump administration amid the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, expressed gratitude for “the support of the United States” in this conflict in a lengthy message.

“May the dreams of free people always triumph over the evil and hatred of those who seek to destroy freedom,” he wrote. “America, thank you! I am confident that if we’re in it together, we’ll definitely achieve peace! Congratulations on your Independence Day!”

Even Russian President Vladimir Putin extended well wishes in a message to President Trump.

“Donald, I wish you & your loved ones health, well-being & every success, & I wish all citizens of the United States happiness & prosperity,” the Russian leader said in a statement shared by the country’s foreign ministry.

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