US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered messages on migration, security, and transatlantic defense cooperation during the 82nd anniversary commemoration of the Normandy landings.
Speaking at the American cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, Hegseth said that various European shores are being pressured by "dangerous ideologies." He referred to boats and people arriving on the coasts of Spain, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria, questioning when European capitals will respond to this situation.
Emphasis on Migration
Although Hegseth did not explicitly use the term migration, his remarks were interpreted in the context of irregular crossings and border security debates in Europe. Using the term "invasion," he asked whether it was already too late to address this issue and expressed hope that it would not be the case.
This statement came after the Trump administration had previously criticized Europe’s migration policies and border security harshly. In a speech at the United Nations in September, Trump also said that European countries were harmed by migration.
Message of Strength for Peace
In another part of his speech, Hegseth highlighted defense cooperation between the US and Europe. He said the soldiers buried in the cemetery fought within a war alliance where each partner demonstrated industrial strength, courage, and sacrifice.
Drawing attention with the words "Not empty slogans, not grand summits, not declarations," Hegseth emphasized that true allies take real steps for a common cause. He stated that peace can only be maintained through strength and called on European allies to take on more responsibility.
Did Not Attend Main Ceremony
Hegseth did not attend the main international D-Day commemoration ceremony held later in the day. The historic operation of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944, is considered a turning point in the defeat of Nazi Germany.
