Washington hosted a grand “Salute to America” event on the National Mall on the night of July 4 to mark 250 years of US independence. President Donald Trump delivered the keynote address during the celebrations.
In his speech, Trump praised the country as “the greatest achievement in human history” and called the occasion one of the happiest and proudest moments in American history.
He also honoured veterans who served in World War II and recognised figures including the first Black officer to lead a special forces unit during the Vietnam War.
However, controversy erupted after Trump moved beyond the customary call for national unity and reiterated his political positions. He again backed the “Save America Act” on election reform, spoke about protecting the constitutional right to bear arms, and renewed criticism of communism.
US presidents have traditionally avoided party politics in Independence Day addresses, but critics said the speech appeared aimed at the upcoming November midterm elections. Across the country, parades and fireworks were held, though some East Coast events were cancelled due to extreme heat and storm warnings.
