King Charles III has congratulated the United States on the 250th anniversary of its independence from Britain, sending a personal message to President Donald Trump. In his letter, the monarch described the occasion as a 'historic milestone' for the American people and expressed pride in having marked the event during a state visit to the US in April.
King's message highlights enduring bond
The King wrote that he and Queen Camilla were 'proud and honoured' to celebrate the anniversary during their April visit. He referenced the 'enduring bond' between the US and the UK, as well as the 'remarkable journey' of the American people over the past 250 years. The letter stated: 'I am greatly encouraged by the enduring bond between our countries, and by the many connections between our peoples, which we were able to see once again, at first-hand, on our visit.'
Charles emphasised the shared history of the two nations: 'Through centuries of shared challenge and achievement, our nations have built a relationship founded on friendship, trust and a belief in liberty, the rule of law and the dignity of all people.' The message also highlighted a 'shared responsibility' to protect the natural world, a subtle contrast with Trump's climate change denial. The letter concluded with the King's standard signature, 'Charles R'.
State visit included Congress address and White House tea
During the King's April visit to the US, his schedule included a white-tie banquet and tea at the White House with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. He also addressed a joint session of the US Congress and attended a street party in Virginia. The visit came after Trump's unprecedented second state visit to the UK in September 2025.
Trump's Mount Rushmore address kicks off celebrations
On the eve of July 4, Trump delivered a half-hour address at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, home to the famous sculptures of former presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. He used the occasion to attack political opponents, warning of a 'communist menace' threatening the US. Trump has placed himself at the centre of the festivities, promising 'the most spectacular TRUMP RALLY of them all' in Washington on July 4, complete with military flyovers and fireworks.
Poll shows concerns over politicisation of celebrations
A poll indicated that a majority of Americans believe July 4 celebrations have become too political, including half of Republican voters and two-thirds of Democrats. Much of the 'Freedom 250' celebrations have taken a religious focus, with Christian speakers and nods to America's spiritual heritage, while glossing over other historical aspects such as civil rights and slavery. July 4 is being celebrated across the country with parades and fireworks.
