King Charles and other senior members of the royal family joined veterans and thousands of spectators to launch four days of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. The commemorations began with a military parade and an impressive flypast, honoring the day Nazi Germany officially surrendered on May 8, 1945 — a milestone remembered across countries like France, the U.S., and Russia.
The British government has lined up numerous events ahead of the historic date. Festivities got underway on Monday as London’s iconic Big Ben chimed at noon, followed by actor Timothy Spall reciting parts of Winston Churchill’s famed wartime address. “My dear friends, this is your hour,” Spall declared, channeling Churchill’s words that once rallied the nation. “This is not victory of a party or of any class — it’s the victory of the Great British nation as a whole.”
More than 1,300 British military personnel marched through the heart of London, from Parliament to Buckingham Palace, where King Charles stood to salute the troops. He was joined by Queen Camilla, Prince William and Princess Kate, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and veterans of World War II. In a symbolic gesture of solidarity, Ukrainian soldiers also marched under their national flag, reflecting Britain’s ongoing support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
In a public letter to British veterans, Prime Minister Starmer expressed the nation’s deep gratitude: “I want you to know: the entire country draws inspiration from your selfless dedication,” he wrote. “This week, the nation will show you just how grateful we are. Without your service, the freedom, peace, and joy these celebrations represent would not have been possible.”
Back in 1945, VE Day sparked jubilant celebrations across Britain, with a young Princess Elizabeth and her sister Margaret famously slipping out of the palace to join the crowds — one of the rare moments the late Queen mingled incognito with the public during her 96-year life.
Monday’s commemorations concluded with a stunning aerial display by vintage military planes and the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows, as the royals waved to cheering crowds from the Buckingham Palace balcony. Union Jack flags filled the streets below, adding to the festive atmosphere. Later, the royals were set to host around 50 veterans and wartime survivors at a special tea inside the palace.