Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used a speech marking the 82nd anniversary of the D-Day landings to warn that Europe faces a new threat from what he described as “dangerous ideologies” entering the continent through mass migration routes.
Speaking Saturday at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, Hegseth drew a comparison between the Allied invasion that helped liberate Europe during World War II and what he characterized as modern challenges facing several European nations.
“Sadly, today, different European beaches are stormed by different, dangerous ideologies,” Hegseth said. Referring to migration routes across the Mediterranean, he added, “Beaches in Spain, Italy, Greece and Bulgaria, boats and men arrive.”
Questions about Europe’s response
Hegseth questioned whether European governments were doing enough to address illegal immigration and its broader social and political consequences.
“When will European capitals do something about that invasion or is it too late?” Hegseth said. “I pray not, and I believe not.”
His remarks echoed criticism frequently voiced by President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other administration officials regarding European immigration policies, border security, military spending, and restrictions on nationalist political movements. (RELATED: Trump Deploys 5,000 Troops To Poland Amid NATO Backlash)
Part of a broader message to allies
The speech comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and several European governments over defense spending and migration policy. The Trump administration has repeatedly argued that European allies must assume greater responsibility for their own security and address demographic and immigration challenges.
Hegseth also urged European nations to strengthen their military capabilities, emphasizing that “peace is only guaranteed by strength” and calling on allies to increase their defense commitments. (RELATED: UK, France Prepare Hormuz Mine-Clearing Mission As Ceasefire Talks Advance)
Delivered at historic D-Day ceremony
The remarks were delivered during commemorations honoring the Allied landings of June 6, 1944, when American, British, Canadian, and other Allied forces launched the largest amphibious invasion in history, beginning the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation.
The D-Day anniversary ceremonies drew military officials, veterans, and government representatives from both sides of the Atlantic to honor the sacrifices of the Allied troops who fought in Normandy more than eight decades ago.
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