Fall of Nazi Germany WWII (1) infographic
Graphic shows timeline of the downfall of the Third Reich.
GN33013EN

VE DAY 75

Victory in Europe Day marks fall of Nazi Germany

By Jordi Bou

May 8, 2020 - 75th anniversary of VE Day, marking the end of the Second World War in Europe following the defeat of Nazi Germany.

The Covid-19 pandemic decimated plans for the parades, flyovers and memorials that would have taken place on the landmark 75th Victory in Europe (VE) Day. Spectator-free TV observances will replace the big commemorations, which appear likely to be merged with events in August and September marking the 75th VJ Day (Victory over Japan) Day, when World War II finally came to an end.

VE Day commemorates the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allied forces on May 8, 1945, which ended the war in Europe. Few veterans of the conflict are left to participate in reunions that usually take place on the milestones, and the 75th VE Day might have been the last significant opportunity to honour them.

Russia traditionally marks its victory over the Nazis on May 9, but President Vladimir Putin’s vast 75th Victory Day parade in Moscow’s Red Square has also had to be postponed because of the coronavirus crisis.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 06/05/2020; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Associated Press, Newscom, German Federal Archives
Advertisement