Europe marks 80 years since VE day as continent faces new security realities

Events to take place against backdrop of Ukraine conflict, rises in defence spending and US foreign policy shift

Solemn ceremonies will be held at war memorials in towns and villages across France on Thursday as the country honours its dead and marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a public holiday this year, as it is every year.

In Paris, the president, Emmanuel Macron, will lay a wreath at the foot of Charles de Gaulle's statue, walk up the Champs-Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe, rekindle the eternal flame at the tomb of the Unknown Warrior, and inspect the troops.