May 8th this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Allies' victory over Nazi Germany and the end of the war in Europe.
France has designated May 8 as a national holiday, holding annual commemorative ceremonies. This year, the commemorative events led by the Élysée Palace focused on President Macron laying a wreath in front of the statue of General de Gaulle on the Champs-Élysées in the afternoon and rekindling the flame of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe, in memory of the millions of World War II victims. Parade on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, featuring World War II-era jeeps.In the early hours of May 7, 80 years ago, Germany signed the first surrender agreement with the Allies here. Due to the signing location being in an area controlled by the U.S. military, and the absence of a Soviet representative, Stalin was greatly displeased, leading to a second signing ceremony of surrender on May 8 in Berlin. Due to the time difference, it was already May 9 local time in Moscow. Hence, Russia designates May 9 as "Victory Day," hosting grand parades every year for commemoration. The Royal Horse Guards Parade in London held a Victory in Europe Day concert on the 8th, where King Charles III of the UK (right) shook hands and conversed with 107-year-old veteran Harry Richardson.Different Liberation Dates in Various Countries
In other European countries, the commemoration of the end of World War II varies due to different liberation dates, leading to different chosen days of celebration. For example, the Netherlands designates May 4 as National Remembrance Day and May 5 as Liberation Day; Italy designates April 25 as "Liberation Day." Victory in Europe Day commemorative event at the World War II Memorial in Washington, attended by Harry Miller, who served in the tank division, now 96 years old.Trump: US Contribution to Europe's Liberation
In the United States, May 8 is not a legal holiday. However, Trump publicly stated this year that the U.S.'s contributions to World War II should be commemorated. He emphasized, "Without America's involvement, there would be no liberation of Europe," calling on the public to "pay tribute to those who brought us victory."
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