has generated controversy this Saturday during the event commemorating the 82nd anniversary of the Normandy landings when comparing the arrival of migrants by sea to several European countries with an “invasion.”
The American leader intervened at the Colleville-sur-Mer American Cemetery, next to Omaha Beach, one of the most symbolic scenes of the Allied landing during World War II. There he assured that currently “other European beaches” are being “assaulted” by “dangerous ideologies.”
“Unfortunately, today other European beaches are being attacked by other dangerous ideologies. In Spain, Italy and Greece, boats and men arrive,” Hegseth said during his speech. “When will European capitals do something about this invasion? Or is it already too late?” he asked.
“Peace is only achieved through force”
During his speech he also asked Western allies to reinforce their commitment to the United States to defend international security and stability. And, as he defended, “peace can only be achieved through force and force is on both sides of the Atlantic, fortified by willingness, common military capabilities and an iron political will.”
In addition to comparing the Normandy landings with the arrival of immigrants to the coasts of Spain, Hegseth insisted that Washington will continue to lead the Western alliances, although he demanded greater involvement from its partners. ““The United States leads,” he noted, but added that “capable allies must be there with us, shoulder to shoulder, in the gap, when it matters.”
In addition, he criticized the attitude on the part of the West since the end of the Second World War. “We have forgotten that freedom is not free. We have forgotten that peace is not only desired. It is achieved with will, honor and strength. The men who landed on these beaches knew it,” he concluded.
