Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the United States on its 250th independence anniversary in a message to US President Donald Trump.

Putin addressed Trump as “dear Donald” in a congratulatory telegram published by the Russian Foreign Ministry. He said the signing of the US Declaration of Independence marked not only the beginning of America’s existence but also a major milestone in world history.

The message praised what Putin described as “many glorious” chapters in 250 years of relations between Russia and the United States, recalling that the two countries were allies in both world wars and worked together to help “free humanity” from the horrors of Nazism. He also said that, today, as the two largest nuclear powers, Russia and the United States bear a special responsibility for maintaining security and stability at a global level.

Putin concluded by wishing Trump good health and wellbeing and prosperity for American citizens.