World War II Memorials Across Europe - A Recap of Commemorative Events in 2023
80th Anniversary of War's End in Europe Commemorated - Moscow Erects victory Procession Arrangements - Recollection of War's End after 8 Decades: Moscow Arranging Victory Parade in Europe
The memorial services across Europe on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II were a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period. The ceremonies honored the valiant efforts of the countless heroes from various nations who united to vanquish the evils of Nazi Germany.
United Kingdom - A Peaceful Remembrance in London's Heart
The festivities in London began with a two-minute silence, resonating throughout the nation, as King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and other prominent figures gathered at Westminster Abbey. Crown Prince William and his spouse, Kate, were also present, along with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and several veterans, who bravely fought in the war. A peace candle was lit by a descendant of wartime leader Winston Churchill, and a wreath bearing the message "We will never forget" was placed at the church. A concert sponsored by the government later took place at a parade ground in the government district of London. Pubs across the UK extended their closing times on this day of reflection.
Germany - Reflection and Gratitude
In Berlin, the anniversary was marked with an ecumenical service at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. After the service, German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Friedrich Merz laid wreaths at the Neue Wache. In the Bundestag, Steinmeier thanked the nations that stood shoulder-to-shoulder in their battle against National Socialist terror. He acknowledged the critical role of the Red Army in liberating Germany and denounced the historical lies propagated by the current Russian leadership regarding the war against Ukraine.
Austria - Embracing Historical Responsibility
A commemorative event was held in Austria to pay tribute to the end of World War II in Europe. Austrian politicians emphasized their country's obligation to recognize its historical errors and stressed that the commitment "Never again" should not be a mere phrase, given the ongoing resurgence of antisemitism.
France - A Ceremony Beneath the Arc de Triomphe
President Emmanuel Macron led a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Military musicians from multiple nations performed, underscoring the unity forged during the war.
Russia - A Celebration Overshadowed by Present Conflicts
May 9 is traditionally celebrated as Victory Day in Russia, eight hours later than in Western Europe. The yearly military parade on Red Square was overshadowed by Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Although more than 20 foreign heads of state attended the event, the Ukrainian government rejected the truce ceasefire declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin on this anniversary.
Commemorating VE Day Across Europe
In the Western part of Europe, May 8 is considered the central day of remembrance for the unconditional surrender of the Wehrmacht in World War II. The document agreeing to the surrender was signed in the French city of Reims on May 7, 1945, and took effect at 23:01 on May 8. This day signifies the end of the war in Europe for the Allied forces.
- The memorial services in London were allowed for an extended duration at the pubs, given the significance of the commemoration.
- Germany's Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier had declared his gratitude to the nations that fought against National Socialist terror during the war.
- Europe remembers the role of the Red Army in liberating Germany, as a subject of discussion or reflection during the commemorative events.
- In the general-news sphere, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine overshadowed the traditional Victory Day celebration in Moscow, with the Ukrainian government declining the truce ceasefire declared by President Vladimir Putin.
