Xi Leads Parade with Putin and Kim in Beijing
China staged a grand military parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II. The event showcased advanced fighter jets, tanks, and long-range missiles, many of which were displayed publicly for the first time. Thousands of troops marched in unison at Tiananmen Square.
High-Profile Leaders in Attendance
Chinese President Xi Jinping presided over the parade, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Their joint appearance drew global attention, with more than two dozen other foreign leaders also present.
Xi’s Strong Message
In his address, Xi declared that the world faced a decisive choice between peace and war. His remarks underscored China’s growing military strength and ambitions, set against a backdrop of an increasingly contested global order.
Defiance Against the West
The presence of Putin and Kim, both under Western sanctions, highlighted China’s alignment with powers seeking to counterbalance U.S. and allied influence. The parade served not only as a show of force but also as a diplomatic signal of Beijing’s willingness to expand strategic partnerships.
