President Donald Trump has declared Thursday to be a day for the United States to commemorate victory in World War II, following the tradition in European countries. Various cities across Europe are holding parades, flyovers, and memorials this week to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. This significant date commemorates when Nazi Germany surrendered to Allied forces, including the U.S.
Trump’s initiative aims to designate specific days for the U.S. to celebrate its role in the victories of World War I and World War II. He expressed frustration on social media about the lack of emphasis on these achievements by Americans, stressing the crucial contributions made by the U.S. in these wars. While initially suggesting a renaming of existing federal holidays, Trump later clarified that he would be declaring national holidays instead.
Despite Trump’s proclamation, May 8, 2025, is the only date officially designated as a “day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II.” Thursday is not a federal holiday, and Trump has noted that only Congress has the authority to establish such holidays. The President has highlighted the celebrations in other countries, expressing his belief that the U.S. should also observe and honor these historical victories.
While Trump did not provide specific details on how these days will be commemorated in the U.S., he acknowledged the preparations and festivities taking place in other nations. In countries like Britain and Russia, VE Day and Victory Day are marked with grand parades, flyovers, and military displays to honor the sacrifices and victories of World War II.
Thousands of soldiers, numerous heavy vehicles moving through Red Square, and air displays featuring numerous warplanes mark the military parades held in various cities across the country. The Veterans of Foreign Wars expressed their support for any initiatives that highlight the service of veterans from that era, acknowledging that only a fraction of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II are still alive today. Associated Press writer Jill Lawless in London also contributed to this report.
