LONDON (AP) — Cities from London to Moscow will be awash with parades, flyovers and memorials this week as the world marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day — the day Nazi Germany surrendered to Allied forces.

Hundreds of people have taken part in a parade in Lancashire to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. The march through the Ribble Valley, led by the Accrington Pipe Band, saw around 500 residents walk from St John's church in Read to the Constitutional Club in Simonstone on Monday.

Members of the British royal family mark 80 years since the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War Two:: London, England:: May 5, 2025The government has planned a series of events in the run-up to the anniversary of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender that took effect on May 8,

The attacks came a day before a Russian-proposed cease-fire was to take effect and as Moscow prepared to welcome foreign dignitaries for a parade.

As Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for his heavily choreographed May 9 “Victory Day” military parade, he’s been clear who’s at the top of his guest list: Xi Jinping.

ANU Strategic and Defence Studies Centre Dr Matthew Sussex discusses Chinese President Xi Jinping’s upcoming four-day visit to Russia.