Ukrainian soldiers will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with British troops in London on Monday as part of the 80th anniversary celebrations of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed.
Around 1,000 UK Armed Forces personnel will take part in the commemorative parade, joined by Ukrainian service members currently undergoing military training in the UK under Operation Interflex.
The MoD hailed their inclusion as a powerful show of international unity in support of Ukraine’s continued resistance against Russia’s ongoing aggression.
VE Day, marked annually on 8 May, commemorates the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in 1945. This year’s event will be particularly poignant, reflecting both historical and current-day struggles for freedom.
The Ukrainian delegation will comprise troops enrolled in Operation Interflex — a UK-led initiative involving 12 allied nations that has so far provided battlefield training to more than 54,000 Ukrainian recruits since its inception last summer.
The programme has been extended through 2025 to continue enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities.
The parade will also feature traditional military pageantry, including troops on horseback and seven military bands.
Veterans from the Second World War will watch from the royal box at the Queen Victoria Memorial, with D-Day veteran Jack Mortimer, 101, sharing his reflections ahead of the event.
“People from across the globe united 80 years ago to defend liberty. It’s vital we remember the sacrifices made,” Mr Mortimer said. “To see so many nations represented at the VE Day parade is a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of our alliances.”
He will also attend a commemorative tea party and remembrance service hosted by the Royal British Legion at the National Memorial Arboretum.
Monday’s parade will conclude with a large-scale flypast featuring the Red Arrows and 23 military aircraft past and present, as thousands are expected to line The Mall.
Defence Secretary John Healey stated: “As we commemorate VE Day, we honour the courage of our veterans and reaffirm our collective values. In today’s Europe, where war has returned, it is right that Ukrainian forces — fighting for freedom — are recognised at this historic event.”
Ukrainian officer Major Pavlo, leading the contingent, said: “Our presence in this parade is a symbol of our resilience and the unwavering support we receive from our allies. Ukraine’s fight is part of the broader global stand for peace and liberty.”
Commemorative events are planned across the UK to mark the milestone, uniting the nation in remembrance and reflection.
