Xi Jinping Hosts Putin and Kim Jong Un at China Military Parade

Chinese President Xi Jinping presided over the largest military parade in the nation's history on Wednesday, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The event, held in Beijing, commemorated the 80th anniversary of Japan's formal surrender in World War II, a date of deep historical significance for China and the broader region. The parade drew leaders and dignitaries from 26 countries, but notably excluded any Western leaders, highlighting the shifting global alliances and rising anti-U.S. sentiment.

Display of Military Power and Geopolitical Messaging

The parade was a dramatic showcase of China's latest military technology, including hypersonic weapons, nuclear-capable missiles, laser systems, and underwater drones. Tens of thousands of troops marched along Chang-an Avenue toward Tiananmen Square, as Xi, flanked by Putin and Kim, observed from a prominent viewing platform. The event was not just a display of hardware, but a deliberate demonstration of China’s growing military might and its willingness to challenge the existing international order.

Xi delivered a speech emphasizing that the world faces a choice "between peace and war, dialogue or confrontation," and declared that China is "unstoppable" and "will never be intimidated by bullies." While these remarks projected strength, they also underscored China's intent to assert itself on the world stage amid escalating tensions with the United States and its allies.

Deepening Alliances and Strategic Implications

The presence of Putin and Kim Jong Un at the parade was highly symbolic. In recent months, China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran have sought to forge deeper military, economic, and political cooperation, with some analysts dubbing this alignment the "axis of upheaval." China and Russia have proclaimed a "no limits partnership," and Beijing has provided Moscow with critical economic support by purchasing Russian oil and gas despite Western sanctions. North Korea has reportedly sent thousands of troops and conventional weapons to support Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, a move that has drawn condemnation from South Korea and the international community.

For Kim Jong Un, the parade marked an unprecedented diplomatic debut: it was the first time a North Korean leader attended a Chinese military parade since 1959 and his first multilateral international meeting. His presence alongside Xi and Putin signaled not only North Korea's growing alignment with Beijing and Moscow but also the trio's shared opposition to U.S. influence in the region.

Reactions and Criticism

The absence of Western leaders at the event was conspicuous. U.S. President Donald Trump responded on social media, accusing Xi, Putin, and Kim of conspiring against the United States and questioning whether Xi would acknowledge U.S. support during World War II. Critics, including some Western analysts, have argued that Xi is giving cover to authoritarian leaders who face international sanctions and allegations of war crimes. Still, within China and among its allies, the parade was framed as a celebration of peace through strength and a demonstration of unity among nations resisting Western pressure.

The parade’s timing and grandeur reflect not only China's domestic priorities—projecting confidence amid economic challenges—but also its ambitions to reshape the postwar international order. As China continues to strengthen its military and deepen ties with Russia and North Korea, the event sends a clear message: Beijing intends to play a leading role in global affairs, regardless of Western opposition.