Sunak admits it was a 'mistake' to leave D-Day commemorations early

YEREVAN, JUNE 7, ARMENPRESS. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has apologised for leaving D-Day commemorations in Normandy yesterday early, admitting it was a "mistake".

Sunak has faced criticism for leaving the commemorations, with Labour calling it a "dereliction of duty."

"The 80th anniversary of D-Day has been a profound moment to honour the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our values, our freedom and our democracy," PM Sunak wrote on X.

"This anniversary should be about those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The last thing I want is for the commemorations to be overshadowed by politics.

"I care deeply about veterans and have been honoured to represent the UK at a number of events in Portsmouth and France over the past two days and to meet those who fought so bravely.

"After the conclusion of the British event in Normandy, I returned back to the UK. On reflection, it was a mistake not to stay in France longer – and I apologise."

Reports had circulated that Sunak left ahead of world leaders gathering on Omaha Beach, and it later transpired he'd taken part in an ITV interview.

Asked by Sky News why he prioritized a TV interview over commemorating people who "gave up everything" for the UK, Sunak said the itinerary "was set weeks ago" and that having participated in the British veterans' events he decided to leave before the international leaders event.

For the commemorative events French president Emmanuel Macron hosted US President Joe Biden, Britain's King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Prince William, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and about 200 veterans, mostly from the US, Britain, Canada and France.