Britain's King Charles has called on the world to work toward lasting peace and preventing future wars during a speech marking the end of four days of events celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Following a solemn thanksgiving service at Westminster Abbey, Charles and other senior royals joined thousands, including veterans, at a commemorative concert held at Horse Guards Parade near Buckingham Palace. The events honored the surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945.
Amid ongoing conflict in Europe, especially Russia’s war in Ukraine, similar ceremonies were held in France and Germany. Russia plans a major military parade on Friday.
Speaking at the concert, Charles recalled the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom during World War II. He echoed the words of his grandfather King George VI and praised Winston Churchill’s belief that dialogue is better than conflict.
"As we conclude these commemorations, let us renew our dedication to freedom and commit to resolving conflicts through diplomacy and peace", Charles said.
Earlier, the 76-year-old monarch and Prince William laid wreaths at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior. A nationwide two-minute silence was observed at midday in Britain.
In Moscow, President Vladimir Putin celebrated what he called the "sacred" victory over Nazi Germany and repeated his contested claim that Russia is now fighting "neo-Nazism" in Ukraine. He also met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is participating in Russia’s celebrations.
French President Emmanuel Macron honored wartime leader Charles de Gaulle in Paris with a wreath-laying ceremony and military parade. In Berlin, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned lawmakers not to forget World War II’s hard-learned lessons.
This anniversary may be among the last major commemorations with surviving World War II veterans, most of whom are now in their 90s or older.
King Charles also reflected on his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who as a 19-year-old princess celebrated VE Day with crowds in the streets. In her diary, she described dancing the conga and singing into the early morning hours.
Charles ended his speech on a lighter note: "I hope your celebrations tonight are nearly as joyful though I doubt I'll be singing until 2 a.m. or leading a conga line back to Buckingham Palace".
On a landmark visit to Rome, King Charles emphasized the enduring bond between Britain and Italy, calling for unity and peace amid ongoing conflict in Europe.
Britain's King Charles is resuming public duties this week after a brief hospital visit due to side effects from his cancer treatment. Following a restful weekend, he is preparing for a regular working week at Windsor Castle, with some appointments rescheduled ahead of his state visit to Italy.
Britain's King Charles was briefly hospitalized due to temporary side effects from cancer treatment and has cancelled Friday’s engagements on medical advice.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is meeting Britain’s King Charles at the Sandringham estate, following a key summit in London where Western leaders pledged continued support for Ukraine.
King Charles and Queen Camilla will pay a state visit to Italy and the Holy See in early April and will meet Pope Francis to mark celebrations for 2025 Catholic Holy Year, Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday.
France and Poland will sign a groundbreaking treaty on Friday to deepen cooperation on defence and energy, signaling a growing alignment among European nations.
In a notable shift from traditional Republican policy, President Donald Trump has proposed raising taxes on high-income earners to help finance broader tax cuts for middle- and working-class Americans.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a renewed drive to establish a unified capital market across the EU, aiming to unlock private investment for defence, digitalisation, and climate initiatives, with significant progress expected before summer.
Romania’s far-right presidential frontrunner George Simion said the country should be compensated for aiding Ukraine, as he clashed with centrist rival Nicusor Dan in a televised debate ahead of the decisive run-off vote.
India has proposed a steep reduction in average tariffs on U.S. goods - from nearly 13% to under 4% - in a strategic move to secure exemption from current and future tariff hikes under President Donald Trump, according to Indian officials familiar with the talks.
India has fired a series of missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory, in what it has described as “Operation Sindoor”
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
Discover every major VE Day 80 event in Britain, 5‑8 May 2025—from London’s parade and fly‑past to street parties, concerts and museum exhibitions.
Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced it will no longer sell goods directly from China to U.S. customers, shifting instead to U.S.-based sellers amid the closure of a long-criticized customs loophole.
Cardinals from 70 nations have gathered in Vatican City to begin the historic conclave to elect the next pope, following the death of Pope Francis 17 days ago. This conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history, showcasing Francis’ legacy of inclusivity.
France and Poland will sign a groundbreaking treaty on Friday to deepen cooperation on defence and energy, signaling a growing alignment among European nations.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a renewed drive to establish a unified capital market across the EU, aiming to unlock private investment for defence, digitalisation, and climate initiatives, with significant progress expected before summer.
Romania’s far-right presidential frontrunner George Simion said the country should be compensated for aiding Ukraine, as he clashed with centrist rival Nicusor Dan in a televised debate ahead of the decisive run-off vote.
India has proposed a steep reduction in average tariffs on U.S. goods - from nearly 13% to under 4% - in a strategic move to secure exemption from current and future tariff hikes under President Donald Trump, according to Indian officials familiar with the talks.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare public visit to the Russian embassy in Pyongyang alongside his daughter on Friday, joining in celebrations for Victory Day and reaffirming his commitment to deepening the strategic alliance between North Korea and Russia.
France and Poland will sign a groundbreaking treaty on Friday to deepen cooperation on defence and energy, signaling a growing alignment among European nations.
In a notable shift from traditional Republican policy, President Donald Trump has proposed raising taxes on high-income earners to help finance broader tax cuts for middle- and working-class Americans.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a renewed drive to establish a unified capital market across the EU, aiming to unlock private investment for defence, digitalisation, and climate initiatives, with significant progress expected before summer.
Romania’s far-right presidential frontrunner George Simion said the country should be compensated for aiding Ukraine, as he clashed with centrist rival Nicusor Dan in a televised debate ahead of the decisive run-off vote.
India has proposed a steep reduction in average tariffs on U.S. goods - from nearly 13% to under 4% - in a strategic move to secure exemption from current and future tariff hikes under President Donald Trump, according to Indian officials familiar with the talks.
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