Ukrainian Troops to Join British Parade Marking 80th Victory in Europe Day Anniversary

Ukrainian Troops to Join British Parade Marking 80th Victory in Europe Day Anniversary

London, May 3, 2025 – Ukraine’s armed forces will take part in a British military parade on Monday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), which marks the end of World War II in Europe.

In a statement issued Saturday, the UK government announced that Ukrainian service members will join approximately 1,000 British armed forces personnel in the parade, which will feature mounted troops and military bands. Their participation will serve as a “symbol of global support in their ongoing fight for freedom.”

This anniversary comes at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump is pushing for a deal to end the war in Ukraine. Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The United Kingdom, France, the United States, and several other countries observe VE Day on May 8, the date of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender. Russia, which at the time fought alongside the Western Allies and included Ukraine as part of the Soviet Union, observes the day on May 9.

Britain is organizing several events to mark the occasion, including a military parade, a flypast, and a formal service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey on Thursday, which members of the royal family are expected to attend.

Since the war began, the UK has shown strong support for Ukraine, providing billions of pounds in military aid and imposing tough sanctions on Russian entities and individuals.

Defence Secretary John Healey said in a statement, “In Europe’s first full-scale war since World War II, it is fitting that Ukraine’s armed forces—still fighting for freedom—will be present at Monday’s events.”

The statement also confirmed that armed forces from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand will participate in the parade, carrying their national flags, along with flags representing all Commonwealth countries.

Jack Mortimer, a 101-year-old veteran, is expected to attend Monday’s parade as one of the few surviving witnesses to the historic moment.

In a statement released by the government, he said, “Eighty years ago, people from around the world came together to defend freedom — we must remember the sacrifices of them all.”