France, Japan, and UAE Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday

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As the United States marks its 250th birthday, governments and world leaders across the globe joined the celebration with illuminated landmarks, congratulatory messages, and tributes honoring America’s founding.

In France, the Eiffel Tower displayed “USA 250” in lights.

Sri Lanka illuminated Colombo’s Lotus Tower in red, white, and blue. Japan’s Rainbow Bridge in Tokyo glowed with American colors during a Fourth of July reception hosted by the U.S. Embassy. The U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland, was similarly lit in the colors of the flag, while the Bahamas illuminated parts of Nassau’s harbor and skyline.

People sit on the steps of the Romanian Athenaeum as the U.S. flag is projected on its facade ahead of United States Independence Day in Bucharest, Romania, Friday, July 3, 2026.
People sit on the steps of the Romanian Athenaeum, a 19th century built concert hall, as the U.S. flag is projected on its facade ahead of United States Independence Day, in Bucharest, Romania, Friday, July 3, 2026. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

In Romania, an American flag was projected on the front of a concert hall with “Freedom 250” above it.

Ecuador celebrated “250 years of ideas, values and freedom” in a short video highlighting the partnership between the two nations.

“America, thank you.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the United States for its support during Ukraine’s war with Russia, writing that he was confident the two nations would “achieve peace” together.

United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan offered his “sincere congratulations” to President Donald Trump, calling America’s founding “a journey of determination and resolve” that continues to underpin the close partnership between the two countries.

Even Russian President Vladimir Putin extended congratulations to Trump, wishing “all citizens of the United States happiness and prosperity” in a message released by Russia’s Foreign Ministry.

The British royal family marked the occasion with a social media post wishing the United States a “Happy 250th” and highlighting their April trip to Washington, D.C.

Pope Leo XIV, the Chicago-born pontiff, offered “heartfelt congratulations” and urged Americans to reflect not only on the nation’s achievements but also on their responsibilities to future generations.