Overview

• King Charles III and Princess Anne emphasized remembrance, unity, and the importance of diplomacy in their messages during the 80th VE Day commemorations.
• National ceremonies included a Westminster Abbey service, a two-minute silence, and a concert at Horse Guards Parade attended by 12,000 people and the royal family.
• Local communities across the UK held vibrant celebrations, such as concerts, parades, and street parties, with notable events in Weymouth, Southbourne, Southampton, Eastleigh, and Totton.
• Veterans and community leaders stressed the importance of preserving the stories of the wartime generation as their numbers continue to dwindle.
• Commentators drew parallels between the 1945 victory and current global conflicts, warning of the fragility of peace and the need for renewed international cooperation.