British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced backlash and apologized for departing the D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations early to film a TV interview, a move criticized for its impact on his struggling election campaign.

While Sunak attended part of the events in Normandy, France, he missed the international ceremony at Omaha Beach attended by world leaders and veterans.

His apology, acknowledging the mistake and expressing regret for not staying longer in France, came after widespread criticism in Britain, CNN reported.

The decision to prioritize the interview over the commemoration event further exacerbated concerns about Sunak’s campaign strategy.

The international ceremony, attended by over 20 heads of state and government, marked 80 years since the pivotal Allied beach landings in World War II.

Written by B.C. Begley