US President Donald Trump on Saturday bragged about the United States on the 250th anniversary of its independence, considering it "the greatest achievement in human history." This year's Independence Day coincided with a severe heat wave, which reached its peak on Friday, while the tangible heat index is expected to reach more than 46 degrees Celsius.

Published on: 05/07/2026 - 11:41

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump considered the United States, on the 250th anniversary of its independence, “the greatest achievement in human history.”

In a speech delayed for several hours due to storms that forced the temporary evacuation of crowds in Washington, Trump said that the United States had become "more proud than ever" under his rule.

Tens of thousands of people who braved the hottest weather ever in the American capital were asked to evacuate the National Mall several hours before the speech due to a warning of thunderstorms.

While many people rushed towards the exits, chaos ensued as others refused to leave or tried to return again, chanting "Trump, Trump"...

However, Trump, 80 years old, who sought to leave his personal mark on the celebrations of this historic occasion of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the year 1776, confirmed that he would go ahead with his speech.

"Storms bring luck"

"Storms bring good luck no matter what the occasion. They also make events a little more exciting. We'll wait out the storm. I don't care if it's at 2 a.m.," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

He added, "I will be there no matter the circumstances," adding, "It's Saturday night. Let's have some fun, even if we go out late tonight."

Minutes later, a White House official and the party organizing the celebrations reported that Trump is scheduled to deliver his speech in the National Mall at eleven o’clock at night (03:00 GMT Sunday), followed by a fireworks display.

This year's Independence Day coincided with a severe heat wave, which reached its peak on Friday, while the felt heat index is expected to reach more than 46 degrees Celsius, which has disrupted plans for parades and celebrations in several American towns and cities.

The traditional Independence Day parade in Washington was canceled as temperature levels in the US capital reached 39 degrees Celsius and the felt heat index rose to between 43 and 46 degrees Celsius.

In addition, the National Mall, where a huge party was scheduled to be held Saturday that included a speech by Trump, was also evacuated due to a warning of an approaching severe thunderstorm.

Hours before the speech, strong winds blew at the site and lightning flashed in the sky, prompting the authorities to issue orders to attendees to take shelter immediately.

"Grateful for this country"

Outside Washington, New York is holding an international sailing ship show, in the presence of Vice President J.D. Vance, in addition to air shows and a huge fireworks display.

In Philadelphia, visitors lined up early Saturday morning despite the heat to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

As for Roselle Weber, who came to Washington from Texas, she said she was grateful for the occasion.

She added: "As a regular immigrant, I came here when I was seven years old, and I am so grateful to live in this country and for the freedom I have."

Independence Day...an opportunity for reflection

For Americans, 250th anniversary celebrations are an opportunity for reflection as much as they are an occasion for celebration.

After two and a half centuries of achievements and tragedies, during which slavery prevailed, then freedom came, and witnessed the Civil War and two world wars, opinion polls show that Americans are divided regarding the future and present of the United States.

A poll conducted by Quinnipiac University on Thursday showed that 61% of Americans believe that the United States does not implement the principles stipulated in the Declaration of Independence.

France 24/AFP

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