Ukrainian troops will join British forces in a military procession in London on Monday to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. This event will bring together around 1,000 service members from the UK’s Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, and Royal Air Force.
VE Day, celebrated every year on May 8, marks the day in 1945 when the Allies accepted Germany’s surrender, ending World War II in Europe. The Ministry of Defence has stated that this year’s procession will symbolize global support for Ukraine’s ongoing struggle for freedom against Russia’s invasion, which began in February 2022.
The Ukrainian troops participating in the event are part of Operation Interflex, a UK-led training program for Ukrainian recruits. Since its launch in the summer of 2022, this program has trained over 54,000 Ukrainians in essential combat skills.
Second World War veterans will play a central role in the celebrations, watching the procession from the royal box at the Queen Victoria Memorial. D-Day veteran Jack Mortimer, who is 101 years old, expressed the significance of the event, noting that it reminds us of the sacrifices made by people worldwide to defend freedom.
The procession is expected to attract thousands of spectators along The Mall. It will conclude with a flypast featuring the Red Arrows and 23 military aircraft, both current and historic. Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the importance of honoring wartime veterans and the spirit of unity they represent, especially in the context of the current conflict in Ukraine.
Major Pavlo, an officer in the Ukrainian contingent, highlighted that their participation in the parade symbolizes Ukraine’s resilience and determination. He expressed gratitude for the support from allies, reinforcing the message that Ukraine stands at the forefront of the fight for freedom and peace.
As the UK celebrates this historic milestone, the presence of Ukrainian troops serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for liberty and the importance of international solidarity in times of conflict.