U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned European leaders against what he described as “dangerous ideologies” during remarks marking the 82nd anniversary of D-Day at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France.

Axar.az reports, citing the Hill, speaking at the commemorative event, Hegseth drew parallels between World War II and current political challenges in Europe.

“In the years since these beaches, much of the West, in some places, in some quarters, and in some capitals, grew comfortable, we forgot that freedom is not free.”

He added that Europe today faces new forms of pressure and instability.

“Sadly, today different European beaches are stormed by different dangerous ideologies,” Hegseth said, referring to migration flows into parts of southern and eastern Europe.

“Sadly, today different European beaches are stormed by different dangerous ideologies,” Hegseth said, adding that “boats and men” were arriving on the shores of Spain, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria.

“When will European capitals do something about that invasion, or is it too late? I pray not, and I believe not,” he said.

Hegseth’s remarks came during a ceremony honoring Allied forces who took part in the Normandy landings in World War II, which were decisive in the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi Germany.

His comments align with broader Trump administration criticism of European migration policies, which officials in Washington have argued pose long-term risks to European stability and security.