Hegseth Links Immigration to D-Day in Controversial Speech

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used a D-Day anniversary speech to link immigration by sea to Europe’s wartime liberation, warning that the freedom won by Allied troops could prove temporary if leaders failed to defend it against today’s “invasion.” Speaking at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer overlooking Omaha Beach during commemorations for the 82nd anniversary of the June 6, 1944 landings, Hegseth said that different European beaches are now stormed by dangerous ideologies.

“Beaches in Spain and Italy and Greece and Bulgaria. Boats and men arrive,” he said. “When will European capitals do something about that invasion? Or is it too late?” Hegseth did not use the word immigration, but his remarks echoed broader Trump administration criticism of Europe over migration, borders, and what U.S. officials have described as censorship of nationalist and far-right voices.

Hegseth’s speech drew swift condemnation from historians and rights campaigners. English historian Simon Schama described the remarks as a “special kind of loathsomeness: a blend of historical deafness, grotesque stupidity and comically ludicrous self-importance.” Israeli human rights lawyer Daniel Seidemann called it an “obscene desecration” of the memories of those who stormed Normandy.

The criticism extended to European officials. Swedish economist Anders Åslund contrasted Hegseth’s comments with his later remarks on standing by allies, calling them “clueless.” Hours before Hegseth’s speech, Vice President JD Vance blamed immigration for the killing of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old British student stabbed to death in Southampton. Both Nowak and his killer were British.

British Justice Secretary David Lammy had an “agreeable” conversation with Vance to set the record straight, emphasizing that the case was not related to mass migration. In France, a residents’ association called for Hegseth’s visit to be canceled, describing his values as colonial, warmongering, racist, and far-right.

The D-Day commemorations included ceremonies honoring Allied troops and veterans. French schoolchildren, serving military personnel, and pipers walked across Juno Beach to mark H-Hour, while British veterans attended the annual Ceremony of Remembrance at the British Normandy Memorial. Key figures in the landings were honored, including British commander Field Marshal Montgomery.

Salon reported that Hegseth’s speech drew particular criticism for its historical insensitivity and political motives. The outlet noted that the D-Day anniversary has traditionally been a moment of solemn reflection on American sacrifice, with past speeches by U.S. leaders focusing on unity and shared values. Salon contrasted Hegseth’s remarks with those of former presidents like Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama, who used the occasion to honor the Allied troops and emphasize America’s commitment to freedom.

Salon also highlighted that Hegseth was not alone in making controversial statements during the European trip. The outlet reported on Vice President JD Vance’s comments about a murder case in England, where he incorrectly linked immigration to the crime. British officials clarified that both the victim and perpetrator were British citizens, underscoring what they described as a misunderstanding of migration issues.