LONDON — US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday warned that Europe faces what he described as an “invasion” linked to migration, as he marked the 82nd anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy during World War II.
Speaking at the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, Hegseth echoed criticism frequently voiced by the Trump administration regarding migration policies in Europe.
“Sadly, today, different European beaches are stormed by different, dangerous ideologies,” Hegseth said, referring to migrants arriving by sea in countries including Spain, Italy, Greece and Bulgaria.
“When will European capitals do something about that invasion, or is it too late? I pray not, and I believe not,” he added.
Hegseth made the remarks during a ceremony commemorating the D-Day landings, one of the most significant military operations of World War II.
He said the United States continues to draw lessons from the Allied invasion of Normandy, emphasizing the importance of strong alliances and shared responsibility in addressing modern security challenges.
“As the world faces an increasingly complex threat environment, the lessons from 82 years ago remain clear: strong allies, each fully committed to doing their part, win wars,” he said.
According to the US Defense Department, Hegseth also warned against complacency among Western nations, arguing that freedom and peace require continued commitment and sacrifice.
“We forgot that freedom is not free. We forgot that peace is not wished into being. It is bought with purpose, with honor and with strength,” he said.
“The men who landed on these beaches knew this; the question we ask ourselves is, do we?”
Source: Saudi Gazette