OREANDA-NEWS  Russian President Vladimir Putin reminded his American counterpart Donald Trump of Russia's contribution to the formation of the United States, and also congratulated him on the declaration of American independence, the 249th anniversary of which is celebrated on July 4. This was stated by Yuri Ushakov, assistant to the Russian leader for international affairs, TASS reports.

"Vladimir Putin, of course, congratulated President Trump on the Independence Day, which is celebrated tomorrow in the United States. At the same time, it was noted from our side that Russia played an important role in the formation of American statehood," the Kremlin representative said.

In particular, Ushakov clarified that Putin was referring to the war of independence of the United States and the Civil War, in which the Russian Empire supported the Americans.

During the American War of Independence, which took place from 1775 to 1783, the Russian Empire refused to provide Britain with its troops to suppress the rebellion in the North American colonies. In addition, Empress Catherine II issued the doctrine of "armed neutrality." This name refers to an alliance of powers that have pledged to defend the principles of neutral trade by force and the readiness of the fleet to return fire if it is attacked in America by the British fleet.

This declaration was supported by the vast majority of European countries, as a result of which Britain was constrained in its ability to block the United States from the sea, which played an important role in its defeat in the war.