US 250th Independence Day: Merz, Modi extend congratulations

US 250th Independence Day: Merz, Modi extend congratulations Published July 4, 2026last updated July 4, 2026What you need to know - World leaders from Germany to India congratulate US on its 250th birthday - British King Charles says US-UK to continue to defend 'shared values' - Putin hails 'glorious' chapters in US-Russia ties, while Zelenskyy likens Ukraine's struggle to US fight for independence - Pope Leo urges US to welcome immigrants in July 4 appeal - Trump extols America, slams communism on eve of the 250th Independence Day Here is a roundup of the top developments in the United States as the country celebrates its 250th Independence Day on July 4, 2026: Tired of missing our real-time updates? Click here to add us as a Preferred Source on Google. Then tap the "Star" or "Preferred" to keep DW News at the top of your feed. Modi congratulates US and Trump on 250th Independence Day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated President Donald Trump and the people of the United States for the 250th Independence Day. He said India and the US “share more than a strategic partnership,” pointing to “shared belief in democracy, rule of law” and close people-to-people ties. “May the next 250 years bring even greater prosperity, peace and progress for America and take the India-US partnership to new heights,” Modi said in a post on X. German chancellor says trans-Atlantic partnership ‘indispensable’ German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has congratulated the US on its 250th birthday, saying the country was “founded on freedom, democracy, and responsibility” 250 years ago. He said both Germany and the US have since been “bound by a close friendship." “Especially in challenging times, our trans-Atlantic partnership remains indispensable,” Merz wrote in a message posted on X. Welcome to our coverage The United States is celebrating the 250th anniversary of its independence from Great Britain on Saturday, July 4. Events are planned across the country to mark the historical milestone. Leaders from around the world are extending their congratulations. Major celebrations are taking place in cities including New York, Boston and Los Angeles. The capital, Washington, will see a massive fireworks display and military flyovers. President Donald Trump said he will deliver "a really long speech” to mark the occasion. Follow DW as we bring you more.