Europe today solemnly commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a historic moment that marked the end of World War II on the continent. Yet, this year’s ceremonies are shadowed by a growing sense of unease, as ongoing geopolitical tensions and shifting global alliances force the continent to confront new security realities.
In France, President Emmanuel Macron led the nation’s commemorations with a wreath-laying at Charles de Gaulle’s statue and a ceremonial march to the Arc de Triomphe, where the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior was rekindled. Military bands, a flypast, and wartime reenactors added colour to the solemnity. But the event bore deeper undertones, reflecting France’s renewed push to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP amid the Ukraine war and the erosion of postwar alliances.
Germany, for the first time, declared VE Day a public holiday. Chancellor Friedrich Merz participated in remembrance events at a war-damaged Berlin church and at the Reichstag, reinforcing his administration’s call for heightened defence readiness. “Whatever it takes,” Merz declared, underscoring Germany’s approval of a major boost to defence and infrastructure spending.
NATO Uncertainty and Eroding Alliances
These observances come as Europe faces mounting pressure from an increasingly isolationist US foreign policy under Donald Trump. Many leaders worry the transatlantic alliance that sustained Europe’s peace and prosperity since 1945 is fraying. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently said, “The West, as we knew it, no longer exists.”
Commemorations Across Europe—and Conflicting Alignments
Commemorations were also held in various forms across the continent—from re-enactments at Nazi-era concentration camps in Germany to exhibitions and concerts in Berlin. Meanwhile, other countries marked the day differently: Italy observed Liberation Day in April, the Netherlands and Denmark on May 5, and Russia will host its traditional parade on May 9.
In a striking geopolitical twist, Slovakia’s Russia-leaning Prime Minister and Serbia’s nationalist President are set to attend Moscow’s parade, defying EU unity. In response, EU foreign ministers will participate in a counter-event in Lviv, Ukraine—a symbolic assertion of Europe’s evolving stance on security, sovereignty, and historical memory.
Looking Back—and Ahead
While Europe reflects on past sacrifices, today’s VE Day is a stark reminder that peace is not a given—but a challenge to be continuously defended.
