PARIS (AP) – France’s president on Sunday led low-key commemorations in Paris marking the end of World War II in Europe.
Under a baking sun, Francois Hollande began the proceedings by laying a wreath at the statue of Charles de Gaulle, the former president and leader of the French World War II government-in-exile.
In his last Victory in Europe Day ceremony before next year’s presidential election, Hollande observed a minute of silence before a rendition of the French national anthem.
He then shook hands and chatted with De Gaulle’s grandson, Yves.
A cortege followed Hollande up to the Arc de Triomphe war memorial. The French president laid another wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where another moment of silence was held.