German President Steinmeier Visits Coventry Cathedral, Signaling Unity Against Russia
Coventry, UK – december 1, 2025 – German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Coventry Cathedral in central England today, in a symbolic act of atonement for the atrocities committed by the Third Reich. The visit comes as Germany and the United Kingdom work to strengthen their alliance in the face of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, Europe’s deadliest conflict as World War II.
Steinmeier’s visit commemorated the devastating Nazi bombing of Coventry on the night of November 14, 1940, which destroyed the historic 14th-century Gothic cathedral and resulted in the deaths of over 500 people. The cathedral’s roofless ruins remain a poignant reminder of the horrors of war.
Representing the UK at the event was the Duke of Kent, a long-time advocate for British-German reconciliation.
The visit concludes a three-day state visit to the UK – the first by a German head of state in 27 years. During a state banquet at Windsor castle on Wednesday, Steinmeier and King charles III emphasized the strong cultural and historical ties between their nations and their commitment to a unified front against Russian aggression in Ukraine.
In a toast delivered Wednesday, Steinmeier described Coventry as a symbol of the reconciliation that emerged from the ashes of war. “Flourishing cities grew out of the ashes. Enemies became friends,” he stated. “That is our common history – and it shows what is absolutely possible when people have the courage to pursue reconciliation.”
The state visit underscores a growing sense of unity among European nations as they seek to support Ukraine and counter Russian efforts to destabilize Western democracies through hybrid tactics, including election interference, disinformation campaigns, and sabotage.
Concerns over the reliability of United States support have prompted increased military spending and enhanced military cooperation across Europe.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the need for transatlantic unity today, stating during a visit to China that “unity between Americans and Europeans on the Ukrainian issue is essential.” He dismissed a report in German magazine Der Spiegel alleging mistrust regarding US peace negotiations with Russia, stating, “We need the United States for peace. The United States needs us for this peace to be lasting and robust.”
