Overview

• The commemorations began on May 5 with a military parade in London featuring British troops, allied contingents, and Ukrainian soldiers.
• King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and other royals appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony, continuing a tradition dating back to 1945.
• Actor Timothy Spall opened the parade by reading Winston Churchill’s 1945 victory speech, emphasizing resilience and unity.
• The Royal Air Force performed a flypast with historic and modern aircraft, including the Red Arrows, over Buckingham Palace.
• The celebrations, which continue through May 8, include memorial services, exhibitions, and community events across the UK.