Topline
Pope Leo XIV offered congratulations to the United States on its 250th anniversary in a message that also urged greater protection for immigrants, joining several world leaders who sent Fourth of July greetings to the U.S. on Saturday.
Pope Leo XIV.
Photo by Franco Origlia/Getty Images
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV, who was born in Chicago in 1955, marked the occasion in a letter that highlighted religious liberty and the dignity of the human person in the United States.
“Defending human life also includes welcoming, protecting and assisting immigrants,” the pope wrote, noting the significant part immigrants have played in the country’s founding and development.
King Charles III also sent a message, praising the “unique and far-reaching” relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. He said he witnessed the nations’ “enduring bond” during his April visit to Washington, D.C.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this Fourth of July also represents the 250th anniversary of the American dream, while recognizing the United States’ influence on the global stage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
Zelenskyy, whose relationship with President Donald Trump has shifted at times as Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion, said his country “deeply” values American support. He cited Javelin missiles provided under Trump and “everything the U.S. has provided” to help Ukraine’s defense, saying it reflects “the strength of the American spirit, American resolve, and American technology.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin reflected on the U.S. and Russia’s allyship during the two world wars in a direct letter to Trump, writing, “Russia and the United States as the world’s two largest nuclear powers bear a special responsibility for maintaining international security and stability.”
Crucial Quote
“I also hold a deep appreciation of our shared responsibility to protect the natural world, knowing the decisions we take today will determine whether our critical natural systems will not just maintain the harmony and essential diversity of Nature, but also continue to provide the foundation for our prosperity and our national security for both present and future generations,” Charles said.
Key Background
Trump will hold a rally at around 9:45 p.m. EDT on Saturday night in D.C., capping off celebrations in the Capitol with what he has said will be the “LARGEST FIREWORKS SHOW IN HISTORY.” The Trump administration has organized or backed several events and festivities for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Last month, the UFC hosted a fight card on the White House’s South Lawn in front of Trump, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison and other prominent business figures. The Great American State Fair kicked off its 16-day event last week but has dealt with technical difficulties, low attendance and weather shutdowns. Trump also sought to renovate the Reflecting Pool as part of the Freedom 250 initiative, though the $14.7 million has been hindered by algae blooms, green water, dead ducks and peeling paint/sealant, the latter of which the Trump administration has blamed on vandals.
