GermanyFederal Council in Berlin commemorates the end of the war 80 years ago
SDA
11.4.2025 - 12:47
Members of the Bundesrat sit in the 1053rd plenary session of the German Bundesrat. Photo: Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa
Keystone
The Bundesrat in Berlin has commemorated the end of the Second World War and the liberation of Germany from the National Socialist dictatorship by the Allies 80 years ago.
Keystone-SDA
11.04.2025, 12:47
SDA
This fundamental turning point and the opportunity for a new democratic beginning were seen as "giving Germany a special responsibility to work for peace, freedom, democracy and the rule of law in Europe", according to a resolution adopted by the Upper House.
The search for lasting peace in Europe also began on May 8, 1945. "The anniversary of the end of the Second World War is a reminder to Europeans to continue on this path of peace, cohesion and freedom and to consolidate it for the future - together with our transatlantic partners," the resolution states.
"The commemoration of May 8 is more important today than ever," said Alexander Schweitzer, Minister President of Rhineland-Palatinate. "Because while the voices of the survivors of the Shoah and the crimes against humanity of the Second World War continue to fall silent, the voices of those who want to relativize these crimes and who want to forget or rewrite this chapter of German history are getting louder." These voices can also be heard in German parliaments.
Peace and security in Europe are now threatened by the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, explained Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's head of government Manuela Schwesig. In addition, US President Donald Trump is calling economic and security cooperation with Europe into question. "More than ever, we need a strong, united Europe."