Trump: “I’m sure the Belgian people have never forgotten that”

©Gene Gallin via Unsplash

Bill White, the U.S. ambassador to Belgium, has drawn attention ever since his appointment — fittingly, the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States was a grand affair in the heart of Europe. Sunday, however, didn't go entirely smoothly.

Donald Trump briefly addressed the crowd in Brussels on Sunday via a video message during the celebration of 250 years of American independence at the Jubelpark. In his message, the U.S. president praised his country’s military and said he was certain that “the Belgian people” had never forgotten the sacrifices made by American soldiers during the world wars.

The celebration was organized by the U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, who had invited approximately 8,850 guests. Among them were Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, along with diplomats, businesspeople, military personnel, and other guests.

White staged a distinctly American spectacle in the Jubelpark, featuring cheerleaders, country music, line dancing, food trucks, a mechanical rodeo, sports demonstrations, a drone and fireworks show, and an abundance of red, white, and blue symbolism. According to descriptions of the atmosphere, the park briefly resembled an American fairground, with cowboy hats, a barbecue, and a healthy dose of nostalgia.

National anthem gets off to a rough start

Not everything went smoothly. The U.S. national anthem was not heard clearly the first time, after which White asked singer Alexis Wilkins to return to the stage for a second attempt. Prime Minister De Wever also touched on the historical theme, delivering a speech in which he referenced the American Declaration of Independence and the shared wartime history of Belgium and the U.S.

Special gift

As a gift, Belgium presented a crystal vase, crafted from Val Saint-Lambert crystal and filled with soil from battlefields of both world wars. According to De Wever, the gift was meant to symbolize the enduring friendship and the values that unite both countries.

The celebration also drew criticism and protests. Local residents complained about the closure of the Jubelpark, while activists from groups including Extinction Rebellion, Code Red, and Greenpeace protested the event.

Behind the scenes, money also played a major role. According to reports, White raised more than $5 million from over 220 donors, with contributions from both American and Belgian companies, including major technology firms, aviation groups, and various Belgian businesses.

©Gene Gallin via Unsplash - illustrative image