Trump takes centre stage as America celebrates 250 years of independence

The United States is celebrating its 250th Independence Day on Saturday, marking a historic milestone with nationwide festivities as President Donald Trump takes centre stage at the country's anniversary celebrations.

The landmark occasion comes at a time of deep political divisions across the United States and during an intense heatwave that has placed about 160 million Americans under major or extreme heat warnings, disrupting parades, outdoor gatherings and community celebrations in several states.

To commemorate the anniversary, President Trump is scheduled to host a campaign-style rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., featuring military flyovers and what he has described as the world's biggest fireworks display.

Speaking ahead of the event, Trump joked about the scorching weather while insisting he would still deliver a lengthy speech.

"It's going to be approximately 107 degrees (41C) out, and I'm going to go and I'm going to make a really long speech, just to show that I can do anything," he said.

On Friday evening, the president visited the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where he addressed supporters beneath the giant stone carvings of former Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

During the speech, Trump praised America's history and achievements but warned that the country's identity was facing renewed challenges.

He accused domestic "radicals and extremists" of attempting to undermine American values and claimed there was "a resurgence of the communist menace" in the country.

The president also argued that recent years had seen attempts to erase American history and weaken national pride.

"You do not have to be born here, but you do have to love what we have built," Trump said.

His remarks echoed themes he has repeatedly emphasised in recent weeks as he criticises the growing influence of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Meanwhile, some of Trump's supporters have gone as far as introducing legislation proposing that his likeness be added to Mount Rushmore alongside the four former presidents already honoured there.

The celebrations are expected to culminate with fireworks displays and patriotic events across the country as Americans commemorate 250 years since the nation's declaration of independence.