America's role in world affairs and its special relationships with allies and partners were on full display Saturday as world leaders offered congratulations and praise while the U.S. celebrated its 250th birthday.
"This year marks a truly historic milestone and a moment of great celebration for Americans everywhere," the United Kingdom's King Charles III wrote in a statement.
"It offers an opportunity to pause and reflect on the remarkable journey of the United States over the past two and a half centuries, and to honour all that has been achieved since 1776."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote that July 4th marks "one of humanity's brightest, strongest, and most influential dreams – the American Dream of an independent, free, and prosperous nation that defends people's freedom, faith, and the pursuit of happiness."
Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry shared a statement from President Vladimir Putin to his American counterpart: "Donald, I wish you and your loved ones health, well-being and every success, and I wish all citizens of the United States happiness and prosperity."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday spoke with President Trump to congratulate him and the United States. He also released a video message Saturday where he said in part, "America has been the greatest force for liberty the modern world has known. Israel is proud to stand beside her, Israel is proud to stand beside all of you, because our alliance is built not only on shared interests, but it's built on shared values."
"The prime minister said in their conversation that the U.S. is a guarantor of global freedom, and Israel greatly values the close ties between nations," according to a statement from Netanyahu's office.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee at the American embassy in Jerusalem on Friday.
"I am extremely moved and happy to be here at the American Embassy in Jerusalem, the capital of the State of Israel, at the Embassy which was launched by President Trump in his historic recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital," said Herzog. "American Independence is one of the greatest moments in history, and it has changed the fate of humanity."
In a letter to Trump, Herzog wrote, "This is also a time to express our deepest appreciation for the unique and unbreakable partnership between the United States of America and Israel. Our two nations draw from the same wellsprings of the Bible, and we share the same fundamental values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity."
"For 250 years, our transatlantic partnership has been shaped by our shared values and family bonds. And, at times, it has been strengthened by the immense bravery and lives lost in the defence of freedom," she added.