On May 8, 2025, the world marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), a significant milestone commemorating the end of World War II in Europe. Royals, politicians, and veterans gathered across the continent, with events highlighting the sacrifices made during the war and the ongoing struggles for peace in today's world.
In the United Kingdom, King Charles III and Prince William led a poignant Service of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey, which began with a two-minute silence observed nationwide. This solemn moment was a tribute to the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945, an event that changed the course of history. Both royals laid wreaths at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, honoring those who gave their lives during the conflict.
Following the service, the day continued with a grand concert at Horse Guards Parade, attended by 10,000 people. The King, addressing the audience, emphasized the importance of carrying forward the stories of the wartime generation, stating, "The debt to our veterans can never truly be repaid." He also called for a global commitment to restoring peace, urging Britons to "re-dedicate" themselves to the cause of freedom and the prevention of conflict.
Events in the UK began earlier in the week, with a military procession and a flypast by the Red Arrows on May 5, 2025. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking at a defense conference, described the day as a celebration of "defiance, sacrifice, and courage," a victory not just for Britain, but for good against the forces of tyranny.
Meanwhile, across Europe, commemorations reflected a somber tone. In Berlin, newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz participated in a wreath-laying ceremony, while President Frank-Walter Steinmeier addressed the Bundestag, reminding attendees of the horrors of fascism and Germany's ongoing responsibility to defend freedom. He stated, "The historic responsibility for this betrayal of civilization... makes it our responsibility to resolutely defend peace and freedom in Europe today." Steinmeier's remarks underscored the importance of remembering the past while acknowledging the current geopolitical tensions, particularly in light of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron laid a wreath at the statue of wartime hero Charles de Gaulle and inspected a troop parade at the Arc de Triomphe. Events in France echoed the broader European sentiment of remembrance and reflection, as nations grappled with the lessons of history amid contemporary conflicts.
While commemorations unfolded in Europe, Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Moscow, framing the upcoming military parade as a celebration of the "sacred" victory over Adolf Hitler. Putin's rhetoric, which included a denunciation of "neo-Nazism," was met with criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who called the celebrations in Moscow a "parade of cynicism" and reiterated Ukraine's ongoing fight against Russian aggression.
As the day progressed, churches and cathedrals across the UK rang their bells at 18:30 BST, echoing the sounds that marked VE Day in 1945. In addition, neighborhoods organized street parties, while pubs were permitted to stay open for two extra hours, allowing people to raise a glass to the sacrifices of the past.
In a touching moment, 10-year-old Alexander Churchill, the great-great-grandson of Winston Churchill, lit a candle for peace at Westminster Abbey, inviting attendees to "pray for peace in Europe and around the world." This gesture highlighted the intergenerational commitment to remembering the sacrifices made during the war.
The 80th anniversary of VE Day also served as a reminder of the fragility of peace in Europe today. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola noted the ongoing war in Ukraine, stating, "Once again, war has returned to our continent... The people of Ukraine are fighting not only for their land but for freedom, for sovereignty, for democracy, just as our parents and grandparents once did."
In Germany, the concept of liberation on May 8 has faced renewed scrutiny. Historian Katja Hoyer pointed out that the narrative of liberation can absolve ordinary Germans of their responsibility in supporting the Nazi regime. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for Germany to defend its hard-won freedom and to remember the sacrifices made by the Allied forces.
As the day drew to a close, it became evident that the 80th anniversary of VE Day was not only a commemoration of past victories but also a call to action for current and future generations. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the rising tide of nationalism in various parts of the world serve as stark reminders of the lessons learned during World War II.
With the dwindling number of World War II veterans who can share their stories firsthand, the duty to remember and honor their sacrifices falls increasingly on the younger generations. As King Charles III poignantly stated, it is now up to the public to carry forward the stories of the wartime generation, ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten.
The 80th anniversary of VE Day has thus become a moment of reflection, not only on the past but also on the present and future of Europe. As nations come together to commemorate this historic day, the hope for peace and understanding remains a central theme, echoing the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom during the darkest days of the 20th century.
