Scotland solemnly marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a series of tributes across Glasgow and Edinburgh, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the Second World War and the enduring lessons for today's world. In Glasgow, a two-minute silence enveloped the city, with residents pausing in streets, businesses, and train stations to honor the bravery of those who fought against Nazi Germany. The commemorations culminated in a thanksgiving service at Glasgow Cathedral, attended by military representatives, veterans' organizations, and elected officials, including Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Scotland Office minister Kirsty McNeill.

The day's events were not only a remembrance of past valor but also a moment to contemplate current global challenges. Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater, speaking at FMQs, drew parallels between the fight against fascism during the Second World War and today's struggles against rising global violence and oppression. Her remarks underscored the importance of vigilance and unity in the face of threats to democracy and human rights, echoing the sentiments of many who see history's lessons as vital for navigating present and future challenges.

In Edinburgh, the UK Government's commemorations included a visit by Scottish Secretary Ian Murray to the Lady Haig Poppy Factory, where he met with World War II veterans. The factory, a symbol of remembrance and support for veterans, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need to honor and assist those who have served. Murray's reflections on the significance of VE Day highlighted the day as a turning point in history, emphasizing the gratitude owed to the wartime generation for securing the freedoms enjoyed today.

As Scotland looked back on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the commemorations served as a bridge between past and present, honoring the sacrifices of those who fought against tyranny while also calling attention to the need for peace and resistance against the resurgence of fascism and violence worldwide. The day's events, marked by silence, reflection, and speeches, offered a moment of unity and remembrance, reminding all of the cost of war and the preciousness of peace.

Families of the 29 victims killed in the 1994 Chinook helicopter crash are escalating their decades-long fight for answers, preparing to deliver a petition with more than 47,000 signatures to Downing Street demanding a public inquiry. The Chinook Justice Campaign has published 110 "critical questions" they want answered about the tragedy that claimed the lives of 25 intelligence experts and four special forces crew members when the aircraft crashed on the Mull of Kintyre on June 2, 1994.

The campaign comes after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer rejected calls for a judge-led inquiry into the incident, prompting families to declare they will "see the UK government in court." Among those delivering the petition on Tuesday are brothers Andy and Matt Tobias from Watford, whose father John Tobias was killed in the crash. The petition delivery will be accompanied by an attempt to deliver a letter directly to the Ministry of Defence.

Central to the families' concerns are questions about mission authorization, aircraft selection, and whether those on board were properly warned of risks. The campaign has gained momentum amid revelations that key documents related to the crash have been sealed until 2094—a century after the incident occurred. David Hill, technical expert for the Chinook Justice Campaign, characterized the government's position as "a betrayal by the state of them and their loved ones."

The crash investigation has followed a contentious path over the past three decades. Initial findings blamed pilot error for the tragedy, but this conclusion was overturned in 2011. The continuing secrecy surrounding the incident has drawn criticism from campaigners who argue it "undermines trust not only in the MoD but in the government itself." As families prepare to confront the government directly, the case represents one of Britain's longest-running military accountability battles.