Topline
Pope Leo XIV congratulated the U.S. on its 250th anniversary in a letter that calls for the protection of immigrants, marking one of several world leaders who have written messages to the U.S. on Saturday as it celebrates the Fourth of July.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV, who was born in Chicago in 1955, wrote a letter celebrating religious freedom and human dignity in the U.S.
“Defending human life also includes welcoming, protecting and assisting immigrants,” the Pope wrote, acknowledging immigrants’ role in the founding and formation of the U.S.
King Charles III praised “unique and far-reaching” ties between the U.S. and the U.K., writing he was able to see the “enduring bond” during his visit to Washington, D.C., in April.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this year’s Fourth of July marks the 250th anniversary of the American dream, acknowledging the role of the U.S. on the world stage in the 20th and 21st century.
Zelenskyy, who has had a back-and-forth relationship with President Donald Trump as Ukraine has defended itself from a Russian invasion for over four years, said his country “deeply” values U.S. support and said Javelin missiles provided by Trump and “everything the U.S. has provided” to help defend Ukraine “demonstrates 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.