Ceremony commemorating 80th anniv. of WWII victory in Europe held across Europe(1/4)

A military parade is held in Paris May 8, 2025 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. (Photo: China News Service/Li Yang)

European nations marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, on Thursday with ceremonies that varied across the continent, reflecting how the end of World War II still carries contrasting meanings eight decades later.

A military parade is held in Paris May 8, 2025 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. (Photo: China News Service/Li Yang)

People in Berlin lay flowers to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, May 8, 2025. (Photo: China News Service/Ma Xiuxiu)

People in Berlin lay flowers to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, May 8, 2025. (Photo: China News Service/Ma Xiuxiu)